1 Timothy 2:1-2

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.

1 Timothy 2:1-2

In the United States, politics has become quite contentious and will be even more so as we enter the election season. Unfortunately, we can become so caught up in the fervor that we lose our Christian footing and become abrasive, spiteful, or hateful when discussing our leaders and candidates for office and their respective policies. We should not cease to speak out against policies that are contrary to what God has revealed in His word (Mark 6:18), but we should do so while remembering that God loves those in power and commands us to pray for them.

Verses three and four explain the “why.” First, it is good and acceptable to obey God; this simply is the behavior expected of the children of God. Second, the heart of God is that all be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. Fundamentally, our politicians and leaders are ordinary human beings who have been elevated to the spotlight due to the nature of their positions, but just like us, they have a soul that God wants to claim as His own for all eternity.

So, let’s perform our civic duty, being engaged and voting according to Biblical principles but always exhibiting Christian love as we discuss and debate policies that we do not agree with, for God has eternity in mind, and He desires that we consider the state of the lost above all else.

Pastor Jeff Mericle