Our Nation Has Spoken

After what has seemingly been an unending campaign (I recall watching the first Democratic debate in July 2007) we now have a President-Elect. While I disagree with the positions of Mr. Obama on abortion and the definition of family and the war against terrorism, he is our President-Elect and his achievement is deserving of our congratulations. My political differences and the differences in our values do not change the fact that I am still called upon by Scripture to pray for him. He will be the President and our duty as Christians is to pray.

For those that disagree with him, I would also say that we will do absolutely no good complaining about his being elected. This election will be discussed and debated and analyzed from every possible direction. Regardless of which man was elected, mean spirited and critical comments would be made. Without a doubt there will be those types of comments made about Mr. Obama. May derogatory and condescending remarks not come from the lips of those that claim to be disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ. Unbelievers around us will watch our actions and listen to our words. He has been elected to the highest office in the land and his historic victory commends our respect for him as our President. While we have legitimate areas of disagreement and cause for concern on fundamental issues we dare not fall into the trap of a sharp and critical tongue toward him. This shows a lack of respect for the office and worse yet, a lack of understanding of the injunctions of Scripture. Consider these passages from God’s Word:

Romans 13:1-2
"Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves."

1 Timothy 2:1-2
"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness."

In addition to supporting the new President through our prayers and actions the results of this election should call out to the church to redouble our efforts and deepen our commitment to personal evangelism and discipleship and apologetics. Why do I say that? Beyond the popular vote and the electoral vote was a vote about worldview. A worldview is one’s philosophy that provides an approach to understanding God and man and how man relates to God and the world. President-Elect Obama received 52.33% of the popular vote while Senator McCain received 46.38%. There is a rather clear difference of worldviews in our great nation. May the church be more committed than ever to follow the command of 1 Peter 3:14-17, "But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened. But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. It is better, if it is God's will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil."

As we face troubling days let us be marked as men and women who know and love truth. Let us be prepared to give an answer for the hope we have in Christ. Let us show respect to those with whom we differ.

Our nation has spoken. Now, we must speak to the nation one by one. By the way, is that not what we were supposed to be doing all along anyway? Did not our Lord instruct us to make disciples? This is not a time for Christians to complain but rather a call to make known our Lord’s name to those in our circle of influence. Our nation has spoken, now may believers within this great nation speak the message of new life through a saving relationship with Christ.