“Choose this day whom you will serve—but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” Joshua 24:15 ESV
It seems odd to me that the month that has been set aside for “thankfulness” is the same month that begins with hate-filled politics and elections that leave most of the population fuming and bitter.
After election results are announced, half the nation seethes with bitterness over the loss. The other half crassly gloats over the slimmest of victories. Finger-pointing and baseless boasts continue to raise still-simmering temperatures in the wake of nasty pre-election brawls.
Instead of relief that the process is over so that the country can move forward, united in purpose and effort to grow and prosper as a nation, everyone scurries to their respective political corners to keep fighting the opposition. It doesn’t matter whether the opposition wins or loses; the fight must continue. Each side is determined to destroy the other.
The election outcome only stirs the embers of dissent and stokes flames of anger. The outcome seems to be the same no matter who wins…it’s ugly.
Then a few weeks later, we’re expected to sit cordially with family and friends whom we suspect voted “wrongly.” “Wrongly” defined as not voting as we did. If the election subject slips into the dinner conversation, the atmosphere can quickly deteriorate and all thoughts of “thankfulness” evaporate.
All in all, early November casts a troubling, lingering tone for the day meant for celebration and thanksgiving for the blessings of the past year.
How do you handle these sometimes difficult and awkward conversations with family, friends, and others?
Do you slip into combat mode to defend your vote and position on the issues-valiantly, voraciously fighting for truth, justice, and the American way?
Are you confident in your grasp of socioeconomic and geopolitical issues, as well as your ability to clearly articulate all sides of the related issues so that you can educate those listening so they can arrive at the same carefully evaluated side of the issues as you?
Do you silently respond with subtle nods — hoping the nod looks neutral and not supportive of views with which you vehemently disagree?
Are you the peacemaker, suggesting that politics, turkey, dressing, and mashed potatoes are not a tasty combination?
Certainly, there are multiple ways to respond, some far worse than those mentioned above. But think about it. What is your end goal when caught in this frankly no-win situation?
If your end goal is to prove yourself right – whatever your position may be – and prove opposing or alternative views wrong, then you may need to reevaluate your motives.
If your end goal is to simply switch the subject and move on, you’ve picked a healthier alternative than the former. However, perhaps there is a better way.
I’ve mentioned this story before, but it’s appropriate here, so I’ll tell it again. A few years ago, during a meeting with a long-time acquaintance, she asked if she could ask me a personal question. Of course, I agreed.
She shared that she was distraught over recent changes in our political system and feared they did not bode well for our country. She asked how I handled these kinds of changes and uncertainties.
My first impulse was to reassure her that the changes could be for the better. As I began talking, her face and body language shifted visibly, taking on a more cynical, almost combative stance.
Knowing I had taken the wrong path, I stopped and said we don’t know and can’t predict how any change in leadership or policy will play out in the end. Too many factors are involved for anyone to predict with certainty the outcomes and impacts of new leadership and changing world conditions.
What I do know with absolute certainty is that it is all in God’s hands.
God is never surprised by an election result. He knew the outcome long before the individuals ever dreamed of running for office; He knew before they were born.
God never wonders how the political leaders will carry out their responsibilities to the people entrusted to their care. He knows exactly what they will do before they do it.
No power rises up that God doesn’t already know intimately.
As I shared these thoughts with her, her spirit calmed, her tensed shoulders visibly relaxed, and her face eased into a slight smile.
I finished my statement:
I know that it is all in God’s hands. I know that He is a good and perfect God, and His Will will be carried out. I trust Him, and I can rest in the knowledge that He loves me.
She said, “That is exactly what I needed to hear. Thank you.”
In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can flesh do to me? Psalm 56:4 ESV
Friend, of course, we need to stand for what is right and just in our land. We need to speak out and step up to help the helpless and those treated unfairly.
We need to protect those who cannot protect themselves. We need to care for and provide for the hungry, the poor, the homeless, and the orphaned. Jesus cared, and He told us to care as well.
When we elect our government’s leadership, it is our job to be informed and understand the positions and policies of those seeking to lead. When their positions and policies don’t line up with what God tells us is true and right, we don’t vote for that individual, regardless of party affiliation.
Party affiliations do not define believers; the Truth of God’s Word does.
But in all these things, our primary mission as believers is to tell others about our mighty God and His love for them.
Don’t get caught up in the nasty, debasing debates. Guard your mouth and your heart. Never forget that the testimony of your life is as important as the witness of your lips.
Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips! – Psalm 141:3 ESV
Sometimes that tough political debate that you dread being dragged into is really an opportunity to point to the only Ruler who is just, righteous, truthful, and holy—the LORD of Lords and King of Kings.
If Thanksgiving conversation takes a political turn, use it as an opportunity to express your thankfulness for the One perfect Leader who will never disappoint, never fail us, and Who will love us forever – our Great God Almighty.
But I trust in you, O LORD; I say, “You are my God.” – Psalm 31:14 ESV