Christian Character & The Election Season.

There is a lot of division among Christians this election season. “What is a vote?” has been something many had to answer who did not think it through previously. Amidst the answers from Christians, here are 6 election-related things I know to be true. We don't have to know political philosophy to know these things, but God's clear, revealed word.

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This list was a quick check up for my spiritual health in this election cycle. I wrote this for myself, but if anyone else can benefit, then praise God. I'm not saying I have done all these, but that I hope by God's grace these will be an overflow of his influence in my life. In turn, I hope this can be a reminder to the readers how we can bring God glory during this time.

I exercise kindness and patience toward Christians (and everyone else!) with whom I disagree.

I am focused on continuing the work God has for me to do in my Church and community by serving those in need and sharing the Gospel.

I talk with others about Jesus more than I advertise my political opinions. Out of the over-flow of my heart, my mouth speaks. Where is my heart finding hope and joy?

I am not making my political decisions out of fear. Politicians want you to fear a world without them at the top. I have a King ruling on top though. The love of Jesus in my life should expel fear as I take hold of his promises in scripture.

I am concerned about the truthfulness of my words, so if I speak/type about other people, politician or not, I should not slander, mis-characterize, or assert things about them from only inference or suspicion. (Things that are not demonstrable, e.g. “Hillary is directly connected to ISIS.” or “All Democrats are lib-tards.")

I am praying for my leaders, current and future, to uphold justice and protect the image of God in unborn children from attackers.

Honestly, for me, recently it means frequently holding my tongue when politics are discussed online.

May we be transformed by God's grace to live with unfading hope and may God have mercy on us as a nation.

Therefore, since we have been justified by faith…we rejoice in hope of the glory of God (Romans 5:1-2)

What would you add?

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