It started with a simple conversation over coffee. Jim and his son, Mack, found themselves deep in a discussion about the latest political news. What began as a friendly exchange of viewpoints quickly escalated into frustration. Their voices rose, their emotions flared, and before long, they were no longer listening to one another. What was meant to be a time of fellowship had turned into a tense debate that left them both unsettled. Later, James reflected on how easily he had been pulled into the trap of division—far from the love and grace God calls us to walk in.
As Christians, we have a civic responsibility to be informed and to vote. Some will even feel called to engage more deeply—whether by running for office, advocating for biblical values, or working within the system to bring about godly change. While these roles can be significant, we must be cautious not to get entangled in the rhetoric and division that so often accompany political discourse. The enemy uses politics to stir up discord, but God calls us to a higher way—a way that seeks Him first and foremost and never loses sight of the love walk God has called us to walk out in this world!
The Bible makes it clear that God’s people are not to put their ultimate trust in human systems, leaders, or personal efforts. Psalm 44:3-8 (NLT) reminds us: "They did not conquer the land with their swords; it was not their own strong arm that gave them victory. It was your right hand and strong arm and the blinding light from your face that helped them, for you loved them... Only by your power can we push back our enemies; only in your name can we trample our foes. I do not trust in my bow; I do not count on my sword to save me. You are the one who gives us victory over our enemies."
Our greatest influence is not found in heated debates or political maneuvering, but in seeking God’s will and living in a way that honors Him. Scripture teaches that when His people live righteously, God blesses nations for their sake. Conversely, when we allow ungodliness to permeate our lives, we open the door for corruption to thrive around us.
Paul exhorted Timothy in 1 Timothy 2:1-2 (NKJV):
"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."
Rather than being consumed by anger over the state of the world, we are called to intercede for those in authority. When our prayers are centered on pursuing God’s will and purpose, we can trust Him to set up leaders that will be a blessing to our lives. This is why our foundation must always be prayer—praying for righteousness to prevail, for hearts to be turned toward God, and for His Spirit to bring revival.God has given us a powerful promise in 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NKJV): "If My people who are called by My name will 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."
Our role is not to fix corruption in our own strength but to pray that God destroys corruption, revives His people, and pours out His Spirit on our land. Political systems will always be flawed, but God remains sovereign. When we fix our eyes on Him, live uprightly, and intercede for our nation, we experience His peace and provision in the midst of any circumstance.
Let us not be distracted by earthly debates but remain steadfast in seeking God’s kingdom first. As we do, He will guide our steps, grant us wisdom, and move in ways far beyond our human efforts. Amen.
Hebrews 12:1-2, NIV "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before Him, He endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."
In His love,
Pastor Tim Burt
