Seven Warnings for Christian During This Election Season
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On November 5, 2024, my son will be 18 and cast a ballot in his first presidential election. He's interested, so we watched the first Republican party candidate debate together. He was shocked, and I remembered how unbiblical Christians can get in election seasons. Seeing believers so quickly turn away from the one who bought their salvation to worship the false idol they believe can buy them a fleeting moment of happiness is disheartening.
Don't get me wrong. Romans 13:1-7 instructs Christians to submit to the governments God has appointed over us, and our government system needs us to examine candidates and vote. Regardless of what value we assign to the process, we honor God when we submit to him and vote. Although we're just passing through on our way to the Eternal City, Jeremiah 29:4-7 teaches a principle that there is something good and right about seeking the wellbeing of the land in which we reside. But there is nothing in here that should tempt us to forgo the principles and instructions of God to engage in the political process.
As this next election cycle picks up speed, I'd like to offer a few warnings for Christians so we can honor God and avoid political idolatry.
Be humble. "In his pride, the wicked man does not seek him; in all his thoughts there is no room for God" (Psalm 10:4). It's too easy to become puffed up with the information and knowledge we think we possess, forgetting that true wisdom comes from God alone. Our preferences and the further of politics can blind us to the reality that our understanding is limited and prone to error. The Apostle Paul wrote, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility consider others as more important than yourselves" (Philippians 2:3). As Christians, we should hold our political convictions loosely, constantly checking them against the Word of God. Humility helps us navigate political discourse more wisely and prevents us from making an idol out of our opinions or preferred candidates.
Don't gossip. Social media and non-stop pundit hype can tempt us to share unverified or salacious information about candidates faster than ever. Gossip is sharing unverified information to tarnish the reputation of another or get attention on ourselves. It can especially cause divisions within the body of Christ. Now, with AI and DeepFake technology added to the arsenal of video editing and Photoshop, it will be nearly impossible to discern what's real and what's not, but that won't slow us down when it comes to passing along the gossip. Paul lists gossip among behaviors that are not fitting for a follower of Jesus (Romans 1:29). It's crucial, then, to exercise great discernment and restraint in what we say and what we pass along, ensuring that our words build up rather than tear down and that they speak the truth with kindness.
Don't turn a blind eye. "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness" (Isaiah 5:20). How easily and quickly people blur or even erase the moral lines for political gain is frightening. Christians shouldn't be okay with this, regardless of political party. There is right and wrong defined by God, and we shouldn't look the other way for the sake of our candidate. As Christians, we must remember the bravery of John the Baptist, who called out Herod for his immoral behavior with his wife. Ultimately, it cost him his head, but it was the right thing to do. To look the other way when confronted with sin or immorality, especially for political convenience or to win an election, is to disregard our call to be salt and light in this world. Ignoring these issues is not an option; we must be willing to confront sin wherever we see it, regardless of its source or political affiliation.
Love your neighbor. "But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). The polarization of political views has unfortunately led to a lack of love and grace toward those with differing opinions, even among believers. This contradicts Christ's command to love our neighbors. When we engage in political discussions or debates, we should do so with "feet sandaled with readiness for the gospel of peace" (Ephesians 6:15). The Gospel is a message of reconciliation, and our conduct should always reflect that, especially in our political discussions.
Don't assign false hope. "Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God" (Psalm 20:7). In every election season, candidates promise change, hope, and a better future. It's the game they've always played to get your vote. We must remember that our ultimate hope is found only in Jesus. It's easy for Satan to tempt us to think that the 'right' leader will solve our problems. This false hope and idolatry detract from our true hope in Jesus Christ. If it's helpful this election, consider writing the following note and putting it where you'd see it daily: "Some trust in the Republican candidate and some in the Democratic candidate, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God."
Judge biblically. "Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment" (John 7:24). During elections, there's a temptation to overlook the faults of our preferred candidates and amplify the flaws of opposing candidates. Remember that God shows no partiality (Romans 2:11). God calls us to exercise righteous judgment, holding all candidates to the same biblical standard of character and assessment. We must judge all candidates by the same standards, which should be the standards we expect to be judged (Matthew 7:1-2).
Pray. "I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way" (1 Timothy 2:1-2). As the election season gains momentum, our most powerful tool is prayer. Please seek God's guidance. Ask our Lord for the wisdom to navigate complex political matters, discernment to identify truth and falsehood, and direction to make choices that align with God's will. We should diligently pray for the election's outcome and those who will assume leadership roles, even if it's not our preferred candidate. Asking for God's will to be done allows us to trust him rather than any human candidate or political institution.