“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel.”—Philippians 1:27
Philippians 1:27 is a good verse for us to remember when the elections results are final for the United States presidential election. No matter who is declared the victor, as Christians, we stand together and conduct ourselves in a manner that represents Jesus.
We work in unison for the common goal of loving others. As God’s church the Holy Spirit is what unites us. Our political differences don’t have to divide us. As the body of Christ we show the watching world how we live in harmony despite our differing views.
It may get heated with whatever the election results are. We can either be a part of the problem or part of the solution. We pray for our new leaders whether they are from the political party in which we identify. As a Christian, this is what we are called to do; unite not divide.
I don’t think it was a coincidence that the Bible Study Fellowship lesson from last week we were in the book of Ephesians 4 where Paul addressed the unity of believers in the early Christian church. This lesson was read by thousands in the United States who have or will vote in tomorrow’s election as a reminder of the importance of God’s people bearing with one another in love.
What was written by Paul so long ago, still applies to us today. In Ephesians 4:1-3, he urges them “to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. 2 Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. 3 Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.” The Holy Spirit is what united them then and what unites us now.
I can go to sleep November 5th knowing that it doesn’t matter who is elected as the new leader of the country because Jesus is the King of my heart. His Spirit in me is what gives me peace. I know my hope is in Christ not man.
Our hope as Christians is knowing one day Jesus is going to return, He will be victorious over evil. Everything will be made right in His new kingdom on earth. Jesus is or Lord above all nations. He reigns and lives in our hearts. He is King and we are His Kingdom people.
God’s desire is for His children to live in harmony among one another. Is there something you can do this week that will make your love for Jesus evident to those that may not have the same beliefs as you?
Father God,
I know when believers pray together, You hear our prayers and lives are changed by them. I pray for no physical violence or riots but peace and unity no matter who is elected. I ask for leaders to lead with integrity and peace which brings solidarity upon the nation. May people and those in leadership positions be led back to Your Word. No matter who is declared president we can rest in Your Words from Matthew 6:10 “your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.” Lead me to someone to bless this week whose beliefs are different than mine. I pray these things in the name of Jesus. Amen.
November Verse
“Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!”—Psalm 95:2 (ESV)
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