7 Things Unchanged By The Election

Surprising. Shocking. Stunning.   These words have repeatedly been used to describe the reaction to Donald Trump’s upset Presidential victory.

Pundits who were pontificating with their predictions of a Clinton landslide were reduced to “eating crow.” Media elites, far left liberals and entertainment stars are red faced and scratching their heads wondering “What happened?”

This Presidential campaign was one of the most tumultuousness in recent history. The inflammatory rhetorical and vitriolic language not only characterized the candidates, but spilled over into contentious conversations among family, friends, neighbors and sadly, in some cases, among brethren.

And so post election, half the country is happy. And the other half depressed. Some are excited about changes that are coming. Others are worried. Some believe America is on a better track. Others predict its decline and demise. But one thing seems certain…. nothing is certain. There’s a feeling of unpredictability brought about by this change.

However, for Christians, some things are unchanged. Instead of worrying about things beyond our control. Or celebrating what we perceive to be the answer to America’s problems. Let’s focus on 7 things that are unchanged by Tuesday’s election.

(1) Our loyalty to the Lord.

Our #1 loyalty is not to men. Or fleshly relationships. Or political parties. It is to our Lord Jesus Christ. He calls us to be committed to His Word. His will. And His way.

(2) Our duty to civil authority

The Bible commands Christians to honor civil rulers. To submit to their authority for the Lord’s sake. And to render to each what is fair and just. And most importantly, we need to pray for the President-elect Trump, as well as all national and local authorities.

“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.” (1Tim. 2:1-2)

(3) Our responsibilites to our families.

In recent years we’ve witnessed an increased attack on the traditional family unit. We all deplore the disrespect for the sanctity of life. And abhor the moral degradation so pervasive in our society. Yet none of that may be changed by a new President or Congress.

However, we can be responsible for our own families. Our values. Our children. Our marital relationships. Husbands and wives can role model to the world the kind of love that Christ has for His church. (Eph. 5:22-33)

(4) Our relationship to fellow Believers.

The unity of Believers should not be divided over political views. Remember that among the 12 apostles Jesus chose Simon the Zealot, who advocated the overthrow of Rome and Matthew, tax collector, who collected taxes for the government Simon despised. However, their call to Christ superceded their personal and political ambitions.

God unites us in a deeper relationship. “We belong to one another”( Rom 12:5) in Christ. Accordingly we must accept one another (Rom. 14:1). Serve one another (Gal 5:13). And love one another (Jn 13:33-34).

(5) Our obligation to help others.

We may hold to different views about the role of government in helping people, but there should be no disagreement that Christians should care about their fellow man. We are commanded “to do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of Believers” (Gal. 6:10)>

(6) Our calling to live righteously.

In a world deceived by the devil, we are called to a knowledge of the truth. In a world darkened by Sin, we are called to be light. In a world defiled by immorality, we are called to holiness and purity (1 Jn. 2:15-17).  We can, as Peter put it “have our conduct honorable among the Gentiles” (1 Pet. 2:12).

(7) Our mission to share His Message.

It’s too easy to get caught up in a mission to promote personal interests. Our main purpose on earth is not about services clubs. Or social services. Or educational advancement. Or political activism. While none of those are wrong within themselves, we have a higher calling. A heavenly calling.

Let us share Jesus’ message of life, light and hope with a lost world. Let’s be ready to give an answer for our hope. And let’s lovingly and accurately articulate the message to lost souls.

Brethren, the power for real change is in the gospel, not politics. Our faith is founded in Christ, not the wisdom of men. And the true hope of the Believer is not found in Washington, but in Heaven.

Don’t be dismayed by life’s transitions. Hold to God’s unchanging hand.

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman