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Passionate About Politics
Showing or caused by strong feelings or a strong belief. This is the dictionary definition of passionate. This article is about those who treat politics with the passion and feelings that should be reserved for God. In every walk of life, we should be applying passion to our service to God. Sadly, more people show passion over politics than they do for God or God's teachings.
We have seen the news stories lately about people getting so involved in the political arena that they act out in ways that are very unbecoming. People that normally would treat others with kindness and respect are now treating them with violence, name calling, and threats of harm. It does not matter where you go, if you have a different belief from the majority, you will be treated in horrible ways. Sadly, many of the people who act this way would probably claim an allegiance to Christ. There is nothing Christ-like by such actions.
Another area of concern for Christians are those who promote a political party. Whether it is Republican or Democrat does not matter. The problem lies in the allegiance to such a party regardless of what it promotes. These are human organizations that promote the agenda of men. In fact, neither of these parties promotes godly ideas, and they will not quote scripture unless they can use it to a means. While we like to think that Republicans are conservative, we have learned over time that they are just as progressive and anti-God as the more liberal and open Democrats who booed God in their last convention.
We were taught growing up that the people had a voice in the way our government was run, and the voice was expressed by their vote. Yet if you notice, those who have been elected have neglected the will of the people and have decided how they are going to do things. Even now, as one candidate is being selected by vote by millions, those in power are trying to find ways to shut him down, and prevent him from getting the nomination. This makes many people mad, because the people are speaking now. They have spoken in the last few elections, and their voice was not listened to.
Yes, there is a lot of frustration in the political arena, and everything that we go through in life is used in a political way. Regardless of who gets the nomination and wins the election, there is something every Christian should remember. "I am a Christian first, and my loyalty is to the LORD". Sure, there are fears about the "what ifs" in this election cycle. Each side paints the worst case scenarios for their people in case the other side wins. The truth we see from past elections is that nothing changes and things continue. The debt will continue to grow, the infrastructure will decline, our vets will be ignored, the poor will continue to be poor, and politicians will decide what you can do for them.
This country is in a downward spiral, and the only chance for survival is to return to God by most of the people. The likelihood of that happening is slim. People who practice sin are going to vote for those who do the same. While they give approval to the candidate, they are trying to validate themselves.
What can we do? First and foremost, do not become like them. If you are a Christian, act like it. If you see that so many are living sinful lives, teach them about Jesus. Teach them one soul at a time. Teach people to live like God wants them to live, and our world will turn slowly back towards godly living.
Second, is to determine to live the life of a faithful Christian no matter who our earthly leaders are. Seek the guidance of spiritual leaders and fellow Christians. We are in this together, and we can be there for each other because we certainly cannot trust our politicians. The middle verse of the Bible tells us to trust in God and not in any man, ruler, or leader. Christ is our King, and deserves our allegiance.
Third, we are commanded to pray. In 1 Timothy 2: 1-3 we read "First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quite life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior".
Prayer is our lifeline to God, and it is such a privilege that we should not waste it.
We are taught in the Bible that God does take concern over the affairs of men, and politics is certainly in that realm. We just have to remind ourselves that God is in control, and that does not always mean that things will be fine and dandy. Remember that God has removed many governments over time and most for the same reasons. Because they became wicked and turned away from God. Maybe we should view this as God casting His vote. Will the people heed the message, or will they become like the politicians and ignore the strongest vote of all.
Our country is not as evil and many before it, but it is heading that way. Turning people towards God and teaching them godly principles is the only chance we have. Not all politicians are evil, but who we keep electing is causing our destruction. Seek those who believe and live like godly principles drive their lives, and vote for them.
By Carey Scott

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