Election Reflection

This is a long post. I pray it works in others hearts as it has already worked in mine in the midst of this fervent political season... As we are casting our votes today, please, let us take a moment and thank God for the privilege of do so. Let us also remember that God works in ways we do not understand: Isaiah 55:8-9 (HCSB) 8 “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, and your ways are not My ways.” ⌊This is⌋ the LORD’s declaration. 9 “For as heaven is higher than earth, so My ways are higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. Knowing this truth, let us all feel the freedom to express our beliefs, but let us do so with a humble spirit. As much as any of us may think we know what is best, God does not always share everything He is doing, even with His people, and if He did, we would not always be capable of understanding. How often in the OT do we see a lone prophet of God speaking against the majority. This does not mean the one is always right, but let us be cautious as we strive to discern the will of God. I know Godly people who are voting for Mitt Romney, which as I have expressed before I do not feel lead to do, and I know Godly people who are voting for President Obama, which as I have expressed before I personally don't understand how they can. As I have expressed before, I would and now have voted for president according to the convictions of my heart, voting for a specific person who is a candidate, not a "write-in" like Mickey Mouse (though in this election, it may have been tempting if I hadn't done the research I have done). Having said this, I also know people who do not see any candidates they believe are who God would have lead our nation. Some of these people have exercised their right and obligation to express their political will by refusing to vote for anyone others are saying are the best choice out of a crop of unqualified and unfit candidates. Their conviction is that if no one is qualified, they will not participate in a political process that has forced us to choose between bad and bad. I understand their pain, even if I don't agree with the conclusions they have reached about all the candidates. I pray that this is the spirit we believers have... that we choose to express loving kindness to those whom we may disagree with. I know I have already failed in this through this election process, and pray that those whom I may have offended will either speak to me about any hurt I have caused, or allow our intense love for one another cover my sin in our relationship in accordance with 1 Peter 4:7-8, as I will choose to do with those who have offended me. 1 Peter 4:7-8 (HCSB) 7 Now the end of all things is near; therefore, be serious and disciplined for prayer. 8 Above all, maintain an intense love for each other, since love covers a multitude of sins. Why should we do this? Because even though God uses us in America to facilitate His will is putting into power those whom He chooses, it is God who ultimate institutes the authorities over us, including president of the United States. While we absolutely have a responsibility to participate in the election process, however the Holy Spirit and Bible direct us, we too must humbly recognize God's ultimate authority and trust that He is using everyone to accomplish His greater design of HIStory. Romans 13:1 (HCSB) 1 Everyone must submit to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist are instituted by God. Let us never forget that part of our call is to have family affection and brotherly love with our brothers and sisters in Christ and live in peace with all men... Romans 12:9-21 (HCSB) 9 Love must be without hypocrisy. Detest evil; cling to what is good. 10 Show family affection to one another with brotherly love. Outdo one another in showing honor. 11 Do not lack diligence; be fervent in spirit; serve the Lord. 12 Rejoice in hope; be patient in affliction; be persistent in prayer. 13 Share with the saints in their needs; pursue hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep. 16 Be in agreement with one another. Do not be proud; instead, associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own estimation. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Try to do what is honorable in everyone’s eyes. 18 If possible, on your part, live at peace with everyone. 19 Friends, do not avenge yourselves; instead, leave room for His wrath. For it is written: Vengeance belongs to Me; I will repay, says the Lord. 20 But If your enemy is hungry, feed him. If he is thirsty, give him something to drink. For in so doing you will be heaping fiery coals on his head. 21 Do not be conquered by evil, but conquer evil with good. Closing thoughts... I know I fail in these often (way too often), as is likely true of most of us. Let us be quick to forgive when forgiveness is sought, slow to judge the words of others, and strive to demonstrate gracious love in all our relationships. This seems to be lacking in society and sadly too, in the church today.