After the Votes: Holding Fast to Faith and Fellowship

It's the day after the presidential election, and I want to share a few thoughts with you that I wrote last night. Most churches have people on both sides of the political spectrum. Radiant Fellowship is no exception. 

Many Christians are blessed to live in democratic countries where elections determine new leaders and where we can exercise our voice in the electoral process. However, once the election is over, feelings can be all over the place. Those whose candidates won may feel ecstatic and hopeful, while those whose candidates lost often find themselves grappling with feelings of depression and worry.

Whether we celebrated victory or mourned defeat, it's essential for Christians to remember certain truths about our lives. When the election is over, we would do well to:

Remember to Trust in God's Sovereignty

God is ultimately in control. This truth resonates throughout Scripture. In the days of Daniel, we see God’s hand in the rise and fall of kings as stated in Daniel 2:21 (NIV): “He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.”

The Apostle Paul affirms this in Romans 13:1-4 (NIV), reminding us that all governing authorities have been established by God. Regardless of our personal outcomes, we must remember that Jesus holds the ultimate authority, as expressed in Matthew 28:18 (NIV): “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.” 

We must trust in His sovereignty. Romans 8:28 assures us that “in all things God works for the good of those who love him” and, as Paul writes in Romans 8:31-39, nothing can separate us from the love of Christ. Ultimately, we are in God's capable hands, regardless of the political landscape.

Understand First Foremost We are Citizens of Heaven

As I mentioned on Sunday, our true citizenship lies in heaven, as declared by Paul in Philippians 3:20. We are pilgrims living among the nations of men, as mentioned in 1 Peter 2:11. It’s crucial that we remember our primary identity as citizens of the Kingdom of God.

We must reaffirm our status as pilgrims, Albert E. Brumley was once quoted saying: “This world is not my home, I’m just a-passing through.” While it’s easy to become too attached to this world, including its politics, we must guard against becoming ensnared by it. Luke 21:34 warns us about the dangers of letting anxieties of life weigh down our hearts.

Remember What Our Primary Mission Is

Our primary mission concerns God and His Kingdom. We are called to seek first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33) and to proclaim His praises (1 Peter 2:9-10). In fulfilling this mission, we must actively engage in evangelism, sharing the gospel, and making disciples as commanded by Christ in Mark 16:15-16 and Matthew 28:19-20.

As we return to our everyday lives post-election, let’s assess whether we are as diligent in our spiritual mission as others are in their political pursuits.

Make Up In Our Mind To Give Leaders Their Due

We must fulfill our obligations to those in authority, as laid out in Romans 13:1-5 and 1 Peter 2:13-15. This includes submission for conscience' sake, paying our taxes (Romans 13:6-7), and offering respect and honor (1 Peter 2:17). Even when we disagree with our leaders, we are called to pray for them (1 Timothy 2:1-4) and not to speak ill of them.

Political differences do not excuse harmful words or actions. Instead, let’s strive to give our leaders the respect they are due, reflecting a Christ-like attitude.

Continue to Be Peacemakers

As followers of the Prince of Peace, we are called to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9). This means loving our enemies, blessing those who oppose us (Matthew 5:43-48), and exhibiting wisdom that fosters peace (James 3:17-18). We should engage in discussions that build bridges rather than walls.

Are we serving as people of peaceful discourse in a divided world? In our interactions, let’s embody the spirit of reconciliation that Jesus modeled.

While the freedom to elect our leaders is a wonderful blessing, we must remain vigilant against the potential dangers. In the euphoria of victory, we may neglect our responsibilities as citizens of the Kingdom. In the dysphoria of defeat, we may forget the One who is ultimately in charge.

Now that the election is over, whether our preferred candidate won or lost, let us:

- Remember to Trust in God's Sovereignty

- Understand First Foremost We are Citizens of Heaven

- Remember What Our Primary Mission Is

- Make Up In Our Mind To Give Leaders Their Due

- Continue to Be Peacemakers

As we navigate the complexities of life post-election, let’s hold fast to our convictions, remembering the profound truth shared in 1 Timothy 6:13-16. Let us keep our eyes on the One who is the King of kings and Lord of lords, honoring Him with our lives, our words, and our actions.

In His Service, 

Pastor Bob Adams