Scripture: James 3:17-18

Introduction

Ahhh, election season 

Don’t you just love it? A time of name-calling, anxiety, and cautiously attempting to avoid the long list of possible landmines that could ruin your close relationships. There is no doubt that our country’s political season gets ugly. It’s a time many of us are not proud of and potentially wish we could avoid altogether. But the reality is, we simply can’t. During the political season, our posture, our behavior, and yes, even our votes, matter. And as followers of Jesus, we are called to emulate him—his love, his compassion, and his call for us to seek the kingdom of God above all else. 

A better way

Even amid a polarizing political season, I believe there is a better way. I believe there is a kingdom-way to navigate and thrive in this divisive time in our country. I believe God offers us a path forward, marked by peace, humility, and unity. 

Through this guide, I hope you are equipped, challenged, and impassioned to choose the path of peace God offers. And from that peace, my hope is that you are moved to share it freely with your world. 

We each have our own circle of influence, and as kingdom Christians, God wants to use you as a representative of a greater story, one filled with hope, joy, and peace. 

Let’s seek to live differently than the world around us. Let’s strive to have a resounding impact in our communities. Your unshakable example of God’s love will speak louder than you may ever know.

What this is:

• A guide to finding peace in this divisive time
• A call to seek God’s kingdom above all else
• A reminder that love must come first

What this isn’t:

• A guide for where to place your vote
• An opinion piece on specific political issues
• A recommendation to avoid engaging in politics altogether

Scripture: Matthew 6:31-34

Perspective

When we look back at the days that Jesus walked the earth, we see that even then, fear and anxiety were present. We see fear around security, finances, and food. There was worry about the future, and whether it would be better or worse than the present. In times of uncertainty and change, we, like the people from biblical times, are forced to recognize our inability to control our fates. In every age, the human race has been concerned about what tomorrow may bring. 

Enter politics

From even earlier than the days of Jesus, people looked to their national leaders as the hope for their future. Nations would rise and fall based on the capabilities of their leaders and the strength of their armies. Yet, throughout Scripture, we see God call us to look toward a greater kingdom, a stronger King, and lasting peace. 

“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end.” Isaiah 9:6–7

It can be easy during the American political season to place a massive weight on the outcome of the election. Every four years, you hear comments like: “The stakes are higher than ever,” or “Our future depends on this election.” Each side raises the stakes to near-apocalyptic levels in an attempt to scare us toward the refuge of their side. While it is true that the election has a significant effect on the laws and systems of our country, it is important that we keep it in proper perspective.

What was true in the time of Isaiah’s writing is still true today. God’s kingdom is bigger than any nation, government system, or political outcome. His plan goes well beyond our city, our state, and our country. And of course, America is included in his plans. But our country is not at the center of his plans. You and I belong to a higher and better way, the way of the kingdom. We are citizens of heaven before we are citizens of the United States of America. 

This may seem like a simple thought, but it’s one that is easily forgotten in the midst of a political season. God’s kingdom is unshakable, unchangeable, and unaffected by the stock market, pandemics, and political parties. His kingdom extends to all nations, all races, and yes, even to those on the other side of the political aisle.

If we fail to remember and practice our highest call, to embody and instill the love of God, we tend to advance the problem more than be a part of the one, true solution. 

An invitation

Today, there is an invitation for each of us to trust in the security, provision, and future that God offers. 

When we are secure in God’s promise of provision, we no longer have to respond to political uncertainty with fear. 

God is our firm foundation in this season. Even though we are surrounded by an environment overflowing with turmoil, he will not be shaken. He is not worried or fearful when it comes to the outcome of the election.

God extends to you and me an invitation to peace in the midst of any and every circumstance. And it is in peace that we love best, communicate truth, and share the hope of the gospel. 

“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.” John 14:27

PRACTICE

1. Reflect on your feelings and perspective around the election. Are you fearful? Angry? Confused? 
2. Take a few moments to bring those feelings before God. Let him know how you feel.
3. Ask him what he thinks about your feelings, worries, and perspectives.
4. Ask God to surround you with his peace right now. Take a few silent minutes to rest in his presence.
5. Pray this prayer:

“Father God, if the election results are what I hope for, you are the one in control. Even if the election results are not what I hope for, you are still in control. Lead me into your peace today.” 

Scripture: Luke 6:27-36

Love your enemies

What made Jesus so disruptive to the culture of his day was not how he treated those that were well-liked and respected. It was how he loved those whom everyone else rejected. Remember Matthew the tax collector? Zaccheus? What about the woman at the well? The woman caught in adultery? Or think about the parable of the Samaritan. Remember the leper? The thief on the cross? You get the point, but the list goes on. Jesus is continually engaging with, loving, walking closely beside, and forgiving those who are not only different from him, but are often the ones rejected by society. 

“Freely you have received; freely give.” Matthew 10:8 NIV

We often marvel at the love that Jesus demonstrates. We are grateful that God would choose to walk in relationship with people like us—flawed, selfish, and often misguided in our perceptions of him and others. We love to be recipients of unmerited and unconditional love. We hope, and even expect, to be shown grace when we make mistakes. The question we must all answer is: are we willing to give that same grace to others? 

An uncomfortable question

What comes to mind when you think of someone with a different political view? Do you see someone created in the image of God? Do you see a person with fears, hopes, and insecurities? Do you see someone capable of good, even if you see bad there as well? Do you see someone worthy of your love? 

If we are going to be kingdom-minded when it comes to politics, we must be willing to love first. We need to see people, souls, and hearts, first. When our own beliefs aren’t fueled by love, we end up vilifying those who are different. They become dehumanized and branded as enemies, rather than known by their true identities as God’s loved children. 

“And he answered, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.’” Luke 10:27

The reality

There happen to be followers of Jesus who are Republicans, Democrats, and Libertarians. 

This may be frustrating. Sometimes it’s hard for us to understand how or why someone can believe something so different. But the truth is that we are not defined by our political parties, we are defined by our identities in Christ. Political parties and beliefs may bend and change, but our identity in Christ does not waiver. And when our identity is firmly set, we do not have to take offense to or be fearful of those who think differently. We should remember that others are loved and infinitely valued by God, rather than brand them as “right” or “wrong.” 

As disappointing as it may be, there is no “God party.” A man-made system can never fully represent all of the incredible, perfect facets of God. And no political party or candidate will ever fully encapsulate the heart of Jesus. Even the greatest biblical leaders of our faith fell short in dramatic ways. We can’t possibly hope to find redemption or restoration for our country through the work of human hands alone. No man can do what only God is capable of achieving. More on that later . . .

PRACTICE

1. Reflect on what comes to your mind when you think of your opponents in the political space.
2. How do you see them? Do you see them as actual flesh and blood humans? Do you see them with wants, needs, gifts, weaknesses, passions, insecurities, hurts, and disappointments? Do you see them as having a heart and a soul? Do you see them as being loved by God despite their flaws? Be honest.
3. Take a moment to ask God to show you how he feels about those same people or groups.
4. Spend some time praying for those that you would consider your opponents in the political space.
5. Ask God to give you a heart of love for those you disagree with.

Scripture: Mark 12:30-31

The real goal

Yesterday we looked at the importance of seeing beyond people’s political ideology, and instead recognizing them as loved sons and daughters of God. Today we’re going to continue this thought as we look at the importance of demonstrating God’s love to those that believe differently than us. 

Love as a pathway to peace

If you desire to walk in peace throughout this political season, love is the best way forward. Throughout my life, I’ve never met someone who could simultaneously be described as both hateful and peaceful. By nature, hate drives out peace, and even in small amounts, it makes gentleness and compassion challenging to find. 

Love, on the other hand, works differently. It elevates us above the drama. I’m still amazed when I catch a flight on a gloomy day. The plane shakes and shudders as it ascends through the rain and wind, only to pass into the still air and sunshine that was impossible to imagine from the ground. Love works in this way, lifting us to a new perspective and letting us move forward to a place of inner quiet. We find stillness even as the season’s storms churn violently below. 

What’s our real goal?

It’s vital for us to continually remind ourselves of what’s most important. When Jesus said that the greatest commandments are: “love your God with all your heart,” and “love your neighbor as yourself,” he added no addendum for the political season. They remain the greatest commandments for us, even now.

In the midst of a high-stakes political season, it’s surprisingly challenging to keep these goals in their proper places. We find ourselves more focused on changing minds, winning debates, and garnering votes, than on loving God and others. We may even begin to see differing ideas as dangerous and threatening. And we may view those who perpetuate the ideas as our opponents and enemies.

But when we look at the life of Jesus, he was constantly followed and harassed by those who were truly his enemies. The political and religious elite literally wanted him dead. Yet, in spite of their very real threat, Jesus continued to focus on the command to love. Let us do the same. 

Let’s remember

Let’s remember that this season’s ultimate goal is not to convince more people to join our political ideology. 

Let’s remember that people with different views are not less deserving of our love. 

Let’s remember that the ultimate goal is that God’s unmatched love would transform lives all over the world. 

Let’s remember that when we align ourselves with God’s heart, his plans, and his purposes, we can step into the peaceful stream of his presence. 

PRACTICE

1. Reflect on whether you are walking in God’s love for others in this political season.
2. Ask God to forgive any time that you’ve walked in judgment, bitterness, or even pride.
3. Ask God to give you a great depth of love and compassion, even toward those with whom you politically disagree. 
4. Ask God what his greatest purpose and plan is for you right now? What is most important for you to focus on?

Scripture: 2 Timothy 2:23-25

Healthy disagreement (Part 1)

When we love other people, that doesn’t mean we always agree with them. We can love our spouses, yet disagree on how best to raise our children. We can love our neighbors, while disagreeing on appropriate paint colors or types of landscaping. And we can love friends and strangers, despite a difference in our political stances. It is not wrong or unhealthy to disagree. In fact, healthy disagreement can lead to the betterment of everyone involved. But disagreement and conflict can be dangerous when not handled appropriately.

“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” Proverbs 27:17

Two requirements: Love and humility

It is important to note a couple of distinguishing factors between healthy and unhealthy disagreement. The first we’ve already discussed: love. This isn’t an “I want to be your best friend” type of love. It’s a love founded in an “I see your value and worth as a human being” mindset. This is critical when we enter into periods of active disagreement. When we engage in conflict without this mutual respect and love for one another, we begin to turn our attacks toward a person’s identity, rather than toward their beliefs. Instead of critiquing the value of a particular stance, we critique the value of the person taking the stance. This diminishes the clarity of our viewpoint and can cause long-lasting relational harm. The people with whom we disagree must always be confident that we still love them, regardless of their viewpoint. 

If we decide who we are willing to have a relationship with on the basis of whether we judge them as right or wrong, we’re practicing the wrong set of priorities. 

God calls us to love and unity, all the while recognizing that we may never reach a sense of uniformity.

Healthy disagreement allows for honesty without diminishing another person’s value and worth. 

“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:29

The second factor that distinguishes healthy and unhealthy disagreement is humility. Tim Keller describes humility in this way: “The thing we would remember from meeting a truly gospel-humble person is how much they seemed to be totally interested in us. Because the essence of gospel-humility is not thinking more of myself or thinking less of myself, it is thinking of myself less.”

We’ve all been around people who lack this quality. It’s readily apparent when someone is only concerned about their own interests and opinions. In order to have truly healthy disagreements, we must be willing to put ourselves in someone else’s shoes. We must be able to truly care about others and their perspective.

When we enter a disagreement with humility, it allows us to see a different perspective. It makes space to learn, change, and grow. Without humility, any disagreement into which we enter is already flawed, most likely fruitless, and potentially destructive. 

“When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.” Proverbs 11:2

The inner work

So how do we walk in love and humility? How do we humbly enter into disagreement? It begins with a willingness to examine our hearts, allowing God to reveal areas that may not be aligned with his. 

See these words from Jesus: 

“Judge not, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you. Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye? Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when there is the log in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your brother’s eye.” Matthew 7:1–5

These are strong words. Yet how often do we quickly point out the flaws in others without having an honest examination of ourselves? What would it look like to examine our own beliefs before telling others where their beliefs fall short? What would it look like to be honest with ourselves and others about the mistakes our political party has made, before picking apart the shortcomings of our “opponents”?

PRACTICE

“Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing. For ‘Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it.’” 1 Peter 3:8–11

1. Ask God to give you a loving and humble heart.
2. Reflect on your own need for grace and forgiveness. Where have you needed a second chance?
3. Reflect on where your own political party does not align perfectly with the kingdom of God. Where could they be better?
4. Reflect on someone with whom you have had a conflict recently or currently. Bring the situation before God. Ask him to show you his perspective and increase your love for that person.

Scripture: James 1:19-20

Healthy Disagreement (Part 2)

As previously mentioned, there is no perfect person or party. Humility starts with full awareness of that truth. When we’re honest with others about where we fall short, we often earn their ear and their trust.

Another way we can learn to walk in humility is through serving others. Richard Foster writes, “More than any other single way the grace of humility is worked into our lives through the discipline of service . . . Nothing disciplines the inordinate desires of the flesh like service, and nothing transforms the desires of the flesh like serving in hiddenness. The flesh whines against service but screams against hidden service. It strains and pulls for honor and recognition.” 

When we serve those around us, even those with whom we disagree, our ego and pride are transformed into love and compassion. A major indication of an unhealthy disagreement involves us elevating ourselves and our opinions. Serving pulls us back into a humble, loving, kingdom-minded perspective.

How can you love and serve the people with whom you disagree? 

Even the thought of this question might sound painful, or irritating, which likely indicates how important this step really is. 

Pseudo-peace

At this point you may be wondering how conflict, or serving those with whom we disagree, has anything to do with finding peace in this political season. Disagreement and conflict feel like the opposites of peace. They feel like something we should try to avoid. And while there is value in avoiding unnecessary conflict, healthy disagreements can function as a pathway toward true peace when we begin from a place of love and humility. 

Have you ever been in a situation where the tension was so thick you could almost touch it? Or have you stood next to someone knowing that you needed to share what’s on your heart, even though it could lead to a fight? One option in these situations is to remain quiet, avoiding the conflict altogether in the name of peace. Yet, all you’re really left with is a pseudo-peace, an avoidance of the necessary confrontation. Artificial harmony is not peace. Avoidance of conflict is not love. It would be like leaving a splinter beneath the skin to avoid the pain of its removal. While it may delay some immediate discomfort, it ultimately leaves you with a lingering unease, anxiety, and a potential for greater issues.

True peace, at times, may only be found by humbly and lovingly stepping into the conflict with the purpose of seeking authentic harmony. This doesn’t require that everyone agree at the end of the disagreement. It does require that each person involved feels safe, heard, understood, and loved. 

How to disagree

There are entire books dedicated to navigating conflict and disagreement, so it is impossible to fully cover the topic here. However, the practice section below includes several quick tips and resource links if you are looking for more guidance on the topic.

My hope today is to encourage you that conflict can be a positive thing when handled appropriately. 

We have a lot in common

The last thing I’d like to mention is that it can be easy to focus on what divides us. Our differences tend to stand out and draw our attention since they push against our innate desire to be right. Yet people who think differently reveal that things aren’t always as simple as right or wrong. 

The truth is that the things we have in common greatly outnumber the things that differ. John F. Kennedy said it best:

“What unites us is greater than what divides us”

Could it be that our pathway to peace involves remembering this truth, even in the midst of disagreement?

PRACTICE

1. Reflect on any situations where you’re living in a pseudo-peace.
2. Bring that situation before God and ask for him to show you his perspective. Ask how he would like you to work through it.
3. Reflect on ways that you can serve someone you currently disagree with or are in conflict with. Take it a step further and serve them anonymously. 
4. Is there someone you need to seek peace with today? Do you need to ask for forgiveness for words that were spoken or harmful actions that were taken?
5. Follow God’s direction in love and humility. 

5 quick tips for having a difficult conversation:

1. Examine your heart: Are you walking into the conversation with love and humility? 
2. Define your intentions: Are you trying to be right, or are you trying to better understand this person’s point of view?
3. Ask good questions: Make it a goal to foster a conversation, not deliver a monologue.
   1. Can you help me understand your perspective on _______?
   2. I am hearing you say _______, is that what you mean?
   3. Are there any things about my perspective that are confusing to you?
4. Work to fully understand the other person’s perspective.
5. Find common ground. On what can you agree? What do you both believe? What is the ultimate goal?

Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7

Prayer

Can I ask another fairly uncomfortable question? 

How often do you spend time praying about the political things that make you angry, anxious, or even judgemental? If you were to compare your time commenting and criticizing others, against your time petitioning God to intervene, how would they stack up? 

Trading criticism for communion

The reality is that criticism and complaints come cheap and easy. Especially now, in a time when everyone has a personal platform via social media. Connecting with the heart of God requires sacrifice and trust. It is done without the gaze of a public audience. 

Hearts and minds are rarely changed through a thread of Facebook comments, but God continues to transform lives in response to prayerful people. 

There is an invitation for each of us today, to step outside of the relatively inconsequential sphere of the digital world. We are invited to dive deeper into the eternally transformative world of the supernatural.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Philippians 4:6

Prayer is a powerful gift we’re given in our relationship with God. He offers us full access to his undivided attention and understanding, even when we’re not at our best. There’s no one else as available, as gracious, and as full of wisdom, as him. There’s no one else who knows us as deeply as he does. Yet he loves us more fully. 

In the midst of this political season, God is inviting us to bring all of our hopes and fears before him. 

Do you truly believe that God is more capable than you? 

“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20–21

Do you believe God desires what’s best for you and your country?

“If my people who are called by my name humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14

If so, can I encourage you to take every concern to God in prayer? Rather than redirecting your anxiety and fears outward, first take them upward. God desires honesty, and he’s eager to connect with us in prayer. 

The power of prayer

There are two major impacts of prayer when it becomes a regular part of our Christian walk. The first is that we are transformed.

Timothy Keller describes it this way:

“God is the only person from whom you can hide nothing. Before him you will unavoidably come to see yourself in a new, unique light. Prayer, therefore, leads to a self-knowledge that is impossible to achieve any other way.”

Prayer is an essential part of walking in the love and humility that we discussed in our earlier chapters. It refocuses our attention on the greatness and love of God and brings awareness to our desperate need for him. Prayer quiets our hearts, changes our perspective, renews our courage, and gives us a greater sense of peace. 

In order to be culture-changing Christians, we must first surrender ourselves to the transforming love of God. 

The second major impact of prayer is that God listens and responds.

“Then he said to me, ‘Fear not, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand and humbled yourself before your God, your words have been heard, and I have come because of your words.’” Daniel 10:12

God is not a distant and indifferent entity who cannot be bothered by our worldly struggles. Instead, he invites our requests, our concerns, and moves in response to our petitions. 

Is it possible we miss out on the miraculous intervention of God simply because we never come before him in earnest prayer? This is not meant to be a shaming question. Rather, it is an invitation to step into a relationship with God that can bring about real transformation in our lives and the future of our nation. Let’s not miss out on the work of God, simply because we don’t ask for him to move.

What if?

As we’ve all seen, election seasons are typically marked by incredible divisiveness and frustration. What if they instead became some of the greatest seasons of prayer? What if we sought out a prayer movement more than we chased a political one? And please hear me, this is not a call to inaction, but a call to put the right actions first. Oswald Chambers brings incredible wisdom to this idea.

“We tend to use prayer as a last resort, but God wants it to be our first line of defense. We pray when there’s nothing else we can do, but God wants us to pray before we do anything at all.” —Oswald Chambers, My Utmost For His Highest

Let’s start with prayer. Let’s spend time with the King so that we can step into transformative kingdom-minded action.

PRACTICE

Find a quiet place and spend the next 10–15 minutes in a time of prayer. Share your heart with him and be willing to listen. 

Ways to Pray:

1. Pray for the political candidates on all sides. Ask for God to transform their hearts and draw them closer to his presence.
2. Pray for your country, that God would bring unity, healing, and blessing.
3. Pray for God to give you wisdom on how to vote.
4. Pray for a softened heart that can love others, even those with whom you strongly disagree.

REMEMBER: Anytime you see something in the news or your social media feed that makes you anxious, take a few minutes to bring your anxiety before God. He is available in every moment. 

Scripture: Philippians 4:8

Gratitude 

It happens every election season.

In an attempt to showcase the strength and value of a particular political party or ideology, people work tirelessly to elevate all of the dysfunctions and weaknesses of the opposing party. Everything that’s wrong with our leaders, nation, and world is put on display, in an attempt to sway the masses toward a specific way of thinking and voting.

There can be real value in highlighting the problems our nation faces, especially when the intent is to have honest conversations and respectful debates that lead toward positive change. But what we often see is behavior and rhetoric intended for tearing others down and creating feelings of fear and discontent for the sake of political gain. If we are going to walk as kingdom-minded believers, we must utilize a powerful tool to combat the negativity and judgmentalism that we may encounter—gratitude.

Short-term memory

Gratitude seems to be one of the most challenging lessons for my children. When a sibling “borrows” a toy, it’s as if the world has come to an end. And when offering our kids a new toy or a fun family outing, the excitement is always short-lived. Within minutes, it’s as if the new toy turns ancient and the outing becomes a distant memory. Holding on to gratitude is hard. 

If we’re honest, we (adults) aren’t much better than my young kids. The goodness and faithfulness of God is quickly buried by our latest disappointments or concerns. God’s track record of provision is put into question over and over. 

It is a recurring and consistent issue we find over the history of humanity. We see it with Adam and Eve as they question if God is holding out on them. We see it with the Isrealites as they doubt God’s provision. And I see it in my heart, as I wonder if God is really going to take care of me in this unstable year. 

The beautiful thing about gratitude is that it reminds us of God’s character. It reminds us that we are loved by him, and he has promised to take care of us. 

The power of gratitude

Gratitude is powerful. It’s like a potent antidote to the negative thoughts that creep into our minds during periods of stress and fear. It’s light in darkness and hope in struggle. It lifts our eyes from our tumultuous circumstances, toward our generous and loving Creator.

But gratitude doesn’t happen accidentally. We’ve already established our own innate tendency to forget. Then, top that with a painful year of losses, an unpredictable future, and a large dose of bitter politics, and the last thing we feel like doing is giving thanks. But let’s look again at this instruction from Paul in Philippians:

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6–7

We looked at this verse in our discussion surrounding prayer. Now, let’s look at it in the context of gratitude. Notice how the encouraged response to anxiety is not simply coming to God with our requests. It’s making those requests from a heart of thanksgiving. Gratitude should permeate the way we pray. It reminds us of who we are praying to. And when we recognize that we are making requests to a good Father, we receive the “peace of God which passes all understanding.”

My encouragement for us in this season is to be intentional in fostering a heart of gratitude. Let us recognize that even in struggle, we’ve been given incredible blessings. This doesn’t mean that we deny our pain and grief. It instead involves taking a moment in the midst of it to recognize that: 

God is still faithful. 

He is still good. 

He still loves you.

He will come through.

Let’s choose gratitude.

PRACTICE

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods, for his steadfast love endures forever. Give thanks to the Lord of lords, for his steadfast love endures forever; to him who alone does great wonders, for his steadfast love endures forever.” Psalm 136:1–4

1. Grab a journal and a pen. Take a few moments to reflect on some of the things for which you are thankful. How has God provided for you in the midst of this unprecedented year? Write down everything that comes to mind.
2. Spend time in prayer. Thank God for everything you’ve just reflected on and written down. 
3. One of my favorite ways to foster a heart of gratitude is through worship. Singing our thanks to God helps move the truth of God’s goodness from our heads to our hearts. Find a worship song that you love, and spend some time giving thanks to God in song. Here are some of my favorites: “Great are you Lord” All Sons & Daughters, “Goodness of God” Bethel Music, “King of Kings” Hillsong Worship
4. Try to make gratitude part of your daily conversation with God. Before bringing him your requests and concerns, thank him for his grace, provision, and the gift of his presence.

Scripture: Ephesians 2:8-10

Kingdom-minded action 

When you look at the life of Jesus, you see that he was a man of action. But rarely were his actions the ones that others expected of him. There was a unique way in which he engaged in kingdom-minded work in the world. 

First, he prioritized people over political systems. He didn’t simply focus on changing policies to take better care of the sick, he instead loved and healed the sick. In this challenging season, we need to make certain we aren’t avoiding our own responsibility to love, by placing it all on our political leaders. We will be disappointed by the results and will simultaneously miss out on the joy that comes from serving others.

So do policies matter? Absolutely. But policies cannot replace the hands and feet of those living with compassion, grace, and sacrificial love. When others condemned, criticized, and judged, Jesus offered grace, understanding, and instruction on how to move forward in a new direction. Let us do the same. 

“‘Teacher, this woman has been caught in the act of adultery. Now in the Law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. So what do you say?’ This they said to test him, that they might have some charge to bring against him. Jesus bent down and wrote with his finger on the ground. And as they continued to ask him, he stood up and said to them, ‘Let him who is without sin among you be the first to throw a stone at her.’ And once more he bent down and wrote on the ground. But when they heard it, they went away one by one, beginning with the older ones, and Jesus was left alone with the woman standing before him. Jesus stood up and said to her, ‘Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?’ She said, ‘No one, Lord.’ And Jesus said, ‘Neither do I condemn you; go, and from now on sin no more.’” John 8:4–11

While Jesus always led with love and compassion, there are also many examples of his willingness to challenge the system directly. But surprisingly, it wasn’t the corrupt political systems that he focused on, it was the religious systems. He challenged the Pharisees, those who were so focused on their personal piety and the sinfulness of others that they became oblivious to their own flaws. He challenged his own disciples, as they argued over who would be the greatest in the kingdom of God. And he challenged the bigotry, racism, and classism that existed within the church, as he made a hero out of the Good Samaritan and revealed the hypocrisy of the religious elite. 

Jesus’ attention was always drawn to the broken, the needy, the sinner, the outcast. And when Jesus encountered systems and mindsets that served to oppress them, he spoke up boldly. 

Please don’t take this as an excuse to email your pastor or blast any other people who came to mind just now. I know you might be tempted to put a certain political party or people group into the category of hypocrite or religious elite. But let’s remember to dwell in a place of love and humility, even when recognizing flaws in others.

It’s also important to note that Jesus never challenged any systems for his own personal gain. All of his actions were seeking the benefit of others, and ultimately, honoring the will of the Father. Much of the political action today focuses on increasing personal benefit, something Jesus simply did not do. Instead, he ultimately sacrificed himself, at the hand of the political system, for the sake of rescuing us. 

How might our political landscape improve, if we as believers primarily fought for the benefit of others, rather than ourselves?

The will of the Father

As the Son of God, one would expect that Jesus could walk the earth with an unmatched level of authority and independence. Yet even Jesus submitted his will and actions to the leadership of God the Father. 

“Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours, be done.” Luke 22:42

As we look to be people of kingdom-minded action, we can do so under the guidance and authority of the King.

While this could be interpreted as a restrictive relationship, it is better understood as an equipping connection. Just as an ambassador walks under the charge, authority, and protection of their nation, we engage in kingdom-minded action under the leadership of God. When we, like Jesus, submit our will and preferences to God, we pick up a greater purpose. We carry peace within our purpose that comes from walking under his commission. Even now, the one who set the world in motion sets the order of our steps. 

Our responsibility

Anxiety often increases when we feel like everything is out of control. When we view ourselves as the victims of circumstance, we often can’t help but walk in a level of fear.

To walk in peace this political season, we must be equipped to recognize what we cancontrol. Even in this period of unknown, when we seem to be dealing with problems too big to solve, we can focus our attention on where we might make a difference. We can seek out the people who need a picture of the love of God. We can find ways to make an impact where systems and policies run in contradiction to the kingdom of God. In the next chapter, we will take some time to explore the practicals of what we have to offer. 

Let’s take a moment to ask God to shape our hearts. Maybe we’ve been like the Pharisee, or the priest, or Levite. Have there been times that you’ve walked as a representative of Christ while seeking personal benefit at the expense of others? I believe that every single one of us, myself included, have stumbled in this way. Yet if we are to be people of kingdom-minded action, we must first recognize where we’ve been people of inaction (or improper action). If we are to be people who walk in peace in a time of division, we must first recognize the areas of our hearts that remain untouched by the transforming love of God. Invite God to move in your heart, seek his loving grace and guidance toward Jesus-like action. 

“Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip you with everything good that you may do his will, working in us that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen” Hebrews 13:20–21

“God’s purpose in guidance is not to get us to perform the right actions. His purpose is to help us become the right kind of people.” —John Ortberg, The Life You’ve Always Wanted

PRACTICE

Reflect on these questions:

1. Does your action look more like criticism and blame, or does it include self-sacrificial love and service?
2. Are there areas in your life or your close circle of relationships that may not be reflecting kingdom-minded action? 
3. Who in your life could use love, grace, empathy, or compassion?
4. Are you willing to surrender to the leadership of God as you step into action?

Scripture: Ephesians 2:10

Give what you have (Time)

“When you give away what you have, Jesus will give you more to give. Even if what you have isn’t enough to solve the whole problem, just do what you can in the moment—give it anyway. Trust that God will fill you up with enough to supply the need that’s right in front of you, and assume he will do it again for the next need as well. If you don’t give, you don’t get a chance to see God do a miracle.”—Jay Pathak & Dave Runyon, The Art of Neighboring

We’ve spent the bulk of this time focusing on personal perspectives and our relationships with God. It has been intentional, but it also may feel intangible or impractical. At the end of the day, we do have a right and responsibility to engage in kingdom-minded action. But it can be an intimidating prospect in times like these. It can sometimes seem that our only option is complete passivity or an over-aggressive confrontation on social media. But if your greatest action thus far has been political posts on social media, might I humbly suggest that there are more effective ways to bring about true change. 

It can be overwhelming to consider all of the current needs that exist in our world. It can be even more challenging to find ways to actively and practically get involved. But can I encourage you today? You don’t need to solve every problem or meet every need! Again, my encouragement for you is to find what you can do and take steps, even small ones, in that direction. To help us do just that, I’d like to reference a well-known stewardship principle that I’ve found helpful in moving toward action. It’s the principle of our time, talent, and treasure.

These three simple categories are meant to provide clarity about what we each have to offer in our pursuit of kingdom-minded action. 

Let’s start with time . . .

Time

“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10

If you’re at all like me, there have been many moments when you’ve realized that you’d like to be in better physical shape. But as often as I’ve thought or talked about my fitness goals, nothing actually changes. It isn’t until I dedicate time (on my calendar) to doing something about it, that real change occurs. 

One of the frequent criticisms of the political space is that there’s a lot of talk and very little action. I wonder if the same may be said for many of us when it comes to political issues. We criticize political leaders, even though we might not take the time to vote. We share our passion around certain policies or beliefs, yet fail to engage with the organizations that are actively working to bring about change in the areas. We wish things would improve without asking the question: “How can I make things better this week?”

There is an invitation for all of us to be a part of God’s work in this season, but it may require some practical changes to the way we spend our time. 

More No = More Yes

We are all incredibly busy. This is a very important reality that we have to recognize when it comes to our time and schedules. The demands for our attention are at an all time high. So it’s not surprising that we have a difficult time finding space in our calendar for involvement in important causes. I’ve never been great at math, but I’m positive that we can’t give more than 100 percent of our time. In order for us to create space to step into kingdom-minded action, the first step is often identifying what to subtract. 

“You can’t have yes without no. Another way to say it: if you’re not careful with your yeses, you start to say no to some very important things without even realizing it.”—Shauna Niequist, Present Over Perfect

The incredible thing about saying no, and reducing the number of things on our calendar, is that we find that our less-hurried lives actually produce more peace. And when the things that remain on our calendar are what’s most important, most transformative, and most kingdom-focused, we find a renewed sense of purpose and security that can’t be found elsewhere.

This concept of slowing down and becoming less hurried is critical to finding peace. I’d encourage you to check out John Mark Comer’s book, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry. He takes a deep dive into this idea of busyness, hurry, and invites us into a different way of living.

PRACTICE 

What can you put on your calendar?

1. Take a moment to reflect on how you view your time. Is there currently space in your calendar for kingdom-minded action?
2. Surrender your time to God. Ask that he would help you to reshape your time and schedule in a way that honors him and serves others. 
3. Spend a moment thinking about what opportunities you may have to love and serve others.
4. Put something on your calendar. This could be as simple as finding a time to vote or delivering a meal to someone. Maybe it looks like calling an organization in which you believe and finding a time to serve.
5. Bring others along. Who can you invite to join you in kingdom-minded action? There is nothing more beautiful than unification of the church to live out the love of Jesus.

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:4-7

Give what you have (Talent)

We are all unique

This truth can often create division between people. In reality, it is one of the most incredible gifts we have been granted. God has uniquely equipped each of us with gifts and talents, not only for our individual benefit, but for the benefit of others.

When we discover what God has uniquely gifted us, we are able to engage in kingdom-minded action more effectively. We are able to act in a way that makes a greater difference than when we attempt to do things outside of our gifting. So how has God uniquely wired you? What are your strengths? Is there something that you can do that seems to come more naturally to you than others? 

Our talents and gifts can come in different forms. For some, maybe what comes to mind is a practical skill like construction, managing budgets, teaching, or marketing. For others, their greatest talents might be more relational like: hospitality, leadership, or encouragement. Each strength has its place, each strength is needed. What’s important is to recognize our gifting and discover where we can use it to step into kingdom-minded action. 

Untalented?

Is there an area where you’re uniquely untalented? I don’t mean this disparagingly. Just as each of us has strengths, we have weaknesses as well. We can improve our areas of weakness, but we must also recognize that our peers may excel in the areas we do not. And that’s a gift!

What would happen if we worked together toward accomplishing a common goal? This is the beauty of what the church is called to be. 

“But as it is, God arranged the members in the body, each one of them, as he chose. If all were a single member, where would the body be? As it is, there are many parts, yet one body.” 1 Corinthians 12:18–20

I’d encourage you to make a note to read through the full chapter of 1 Corinthians 12, which offers powerful insight on God’s desire for unity among the church. For today, let’s remember that God did not call us to transform the world all by ourselves. We are instead created to partner with God and join together as a unified body. When we do, we can be a part of the incredible things God has in store for us.

PRACTICE 

What are your talents?

1. Spend a moment identifying your gifts and talents. If you’re having trouble, ask a trusted friend or family member to help you!
2. Ask God to show you how you can use your gifts and talents to love and serve others in this political season.
3. Is there someone who is gifted in another area with whom you might collaborate?
4. Surrender your gifts and talents to God in this moment. Ask him to use them to bring love, joy, and peace to others.
5. If a specific idea comes to mind, remember to put it on your calendar!

Scripture: Luke 10:33-35

Give what you have (Treasure)

Worthwhile actions always cost something. Sometimes they cost our time, as we previously discussed. Other times, they may have an actual financial cost. Take a moment to think about the story of the Good Samaritan. Not only did the Samaritan sacrifice his time to care for the injured man, he continued to show love and compassion by paying for the man’s room and board. It’s one thing to help an injured man on the side of the road. It’s an entirely different level of love and sacrifice to pay for his housing and medical expenses. 

When love and compassion never require us to open our wallets, we may need to re-evaluate the depth of our love. 

Before we dive deeper into the topic of money, please know that I’m not prescribing a particular way to spend your money. I certainly do not want to bring shame to those who are struggling financially. Time and talent are equally valuable contributions toward kingdom-minded action. Our value and worth are not based on how much money we have, give, or receive. 

However, for those who have access to financial resources, there is an opportunity and responsibility to use them. Just like our other gifts, we must steward our blessings in a way that demonstrates the love and compassion of Jesus. 

Heart follows treasure

“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6:19–21

When I consider where my treasure and heart sit, it sure looks like they are deeply invested in things like: food, Amazon, entertainment, and comfort. I am admittedly generous when it comes to taking care of myself and family. Yet, I often tend to be closed-fisted or indifferent when it comes to sharing my finances with others. 

What we learn through Jesus’ teaching, is that our finances and hearts are interconnected, even inseparable. So when our finances are threatened, so are all of the things in which we’ve invested our heart. In an unstable political season, financial uncertainty often increases, and with it, our anxiety.

If we long to find true peace in this political season, we can take Jesus up on his invitation to lay up our treasure in heaven. When our finances are fully surrendered to building God’s kingdom, rather than our own, we find our hearts can rest securely in the protection and provision of God.

Giving generously

How can we use our financial resources as a part of our kingdom-minded action? Be generous. 

Throughout the previous days, there have been a few opportunities to consider causes and organizations that you align with and are passionate about. Could they benefit from your financial generosity? Could they love and serve more people if you stepped in to support them? If you’re not sure, feel free to ask them! An organization worth financially supporting should have clear plans on how they can increase their kingdom-minded action with your generosity.

Who comes to mind when you think of someone in need? Is there a neighbor who has lost a job? A family you know struggles to buy their groceries? A community that seems to be overlooked and forgotten? As we move into our practice section, spend some time asking God to show you where you can be generous with what he’s given you. 

PRACTICE

Storing up treasure in heaven

Again, for clarity, this is not meant to be a prescriptive way to use your finances. But it can hopefully be a starting point for you as you pray and reflect. 

1. Spend a few moments reflecting on where your treasure and your heart sit.
2. Surrender your finances to God. Recognize that all of it comes from him and belongs to him. 
3. Reflect on who might be in need of your generosity. Where can you presently take kingdom-minded action through your finances?

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.” James 1:17

Scripture: Philippians 4:8

Technology: Friend or foe?

It seems incomplete to have a discussion about finding peace in politics, without addressing one of the primary ways in which that peace is interrupted. There’s no question that the way we experience the political season is dramatically different than it was a decade or two ago. And it’s important to recognize that this change has a measurable impact on how we consume information, hear opinions, and process events in our world.

Let’s think for a moment about how this political season would be playing out if it happened forty years ago. The 24/7 news cycle was a brand new venture. The iPhone was decades away. Even home internet wasn’t yet a possibility. It was basically the stone age right? It’s quite difficult to imagine this political season without Twitter drama and cable news feuds. 

The changing technological landscape has not only had an effect on the world at large, it has impacted our hearts, minds, and emotions. We are more informed, yet more stressed. We are more connected, yet more divided. In many ways, the more advanced we’ve become technologically, the more our mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness have moved in the opposite direction.

It seems possible that discovering peace in this season involves a healthy disconnection from the things that stir up our anxiety and fear. Perhaps we need to make space for the things that bring us life. Let’s look at some specifics.

24/7 drama

On June 1, 1980, CNN launched the first news channel that would exclusively broadcast news at every hour of the day. For the first time in history, you could turn on the TV at any moment and discover the current breaking stories. And it proved to be a profitable venture. So much so, that more networks continued to launch their own competitors to CNN.

I actually don’t have anything against 24/7 news. It can be really informative, interesting, and honestly, entertaining. It is, however, important to recognize that the ultimate goal of cable news is not to better the viewer. Its main objective is to generate ad revenue. And how do they do that? By producing content that keeps us watching. 

Can you imagine any of the news networks leading with a story like the one below? 

“BREAKING NEWS—THERE’S NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT, EVERYTHING IS GOING TO BE OKAY.”

It wouldn’t make for great television. 

For better or worse, the news thrives off of drama. Drama increases viewers, viewers increase ratings, ratings increase ad revenue. This truly is not meant to be an indictment on television or cable news. But it is important to understand that we are not likely to find a greater sense of peace by obsessing over the news. 

If you’re feeling anxious, fearful, and stressed about current events, consider a hiatus from watching the news. If disconnecting completely feels too extreme, consider choosing a single daily time to seek updates. 

Social Media

“Social media brings out the best in people.”

Try saying that with a straight face! Unfortunately, the truth is much different. We previously discussed how loving our enemies is critical when it comes to finding peace in politics. Social media seems to be the place where this is most difficult. I’ve witnessed many kind and loving people type hurtful and angry things on social platforms. In some cases, my peers’ vehement words have caused me to question if I even know them at all. 

Social media has a way of reducing people’s filters. It seems to give us a boldness to say things that we would not normally say. At face value, this could sound like a positive thing. But in reality, it rarely translates to bolder love, compassion, and empathy. Behind screens, we tend to become more vocal about our opinions and less willing to listen and understand others. 

When politics enters the equation, we’re quick to share articles and opinions that support our existing viewpoints. We are also often quick to shoot down those that differ (potentially after only reading the headline).

If we’re to find peace in this political season, we must be willing to perform an honest examination of the effect that social media is having on our hearts and minds. 

Is social media leading you to love more? 

Is social media leading you toward humility? 

Is social media leading you toward peace?

If your answer to these questions is yes, then you may be able to move on to the next section. My point here is not to vilify social media. It is to help us recognize an area that may be leading many of us away from peace. Personally, I found a great sense of peace, trust, and compassion when I took a break from a social media presence. 

Later, in our practice section, we’ll take some more time to reflect on this subject. 

To take a deeper dive into how social media has shaped the political landscape, I’d encourage you to read Jaron Lanier’s, Ten Arguments for Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now. It includes an entire chapter on the consequences of social media on politics worldwide.

Do Not Disturb

“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:18 NIV

The last thing I want to mention, in reference to technology, is that phone notifications are much less benign than they may seem. 

When you allow a social media provider, news app, or even your email account, to notify you on your phone, you’re essentially giving them a free pass to interrupt your life. Whenever they choose, they can pull your attention away from the physical world and into their world. You are giving them permission to direct your attention to wherever they’d like. 

This may sound incredibly dramatic or even bordering conspiracy theory level skepticism, but I’d encourage you to engage in additional research on the science behind the “attention economy” and how our capacity toward giving something our attention is a finite resource.

Again, if you’re struggling with anxiety in this season, consider disabling your notifications for your social media accounts, news apps, and email. Give it a solid week and evaluate if things have changed in your heart and mind. 

PRACTICE

1. Take a moment to reflect on the role of technology in your life. Where is it helping your heart, soul, and mind? Where is it having a negative impact?
2. Reflect on your engagement with others on social media. Are your conversations aligning with the heart of God?
3. Ask God what a healthy engagement with the news looks like for you.
4. Ask God what a healthy engagement with social media looks like for you.
5. Take a moment to make changes to your devices that will help you walk in peace.
6. Spend some time thanking God for the blessing of technology. Ask him to help you use it in a way that draws you and others toward him.

Scripture: Psalms 23:6

Trust your guide 

Growing up, my family took regular road trips. We’d visit grandparents for holidays. We’d head out for much needed vacations at the beach or campground. In my younger years, I knew very little about the plan. I didn’t know the route we were taking, the stops we were planning, or even how long it would take to get to our destination. I trusted that my parents had the details all figured out. 

As I grew older, my desire to be informed and consulted grew as well. I wanted to know exactly how long the trip would take, where we were going to eat along the way (the most important question), and the plan upon arrival. As my preference for understanding and control grew, so did my anxiety and frustration. The plan often didn’t match my preferences. And things often didn’t go according to the plan. The trips themselves hadn’t really changed. What changed was my perspective. 

In this age of 24/7 news and social media proliferation, we ache to know exactly what’s going on. We long to feel like we’re in control of our own lives. But if 2020 has taught us anything, it’s that a huge percentage of what happens in this world is beyond our ability to influence. This truth can be incredibly unnerving, frustrating, and simply scary. But when we see ourselves from a kingdom-minded perspective, it can also be incredibly freeing. 

Consider David’s words from Psalm 23: 

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, For you are with me.”

This is not the prayer of a man striving for control. It is the prayer of a man who recognizes the one who is in control. It is the prayer of a man who has learned to trust his guide. 

This year has been disorienting. For many of us, it may feel a lot like the valley of the shadow of death described by David. But God has not left us alone. Even in the valley, we have a trustworthy Shepherd who will protect us along the way. He will lead us to the other side. 

On January 20, the inauguration will take place. The ceremony will usher in the next four years of the presidency. Regardless of who recites the Oath of Office that day, we can walk in confidence knowing that our ultimate guide is not a Republican or Democrat. He is a Good Shepherd. 

My hope for you—for us—is that we would accept God’s invitation into green pastures, still waters, and peace in the midst of politics.