Monday, October 27, 2008

Politics Schmolotics

Like me, are you tired yet of all the political ads and accusations going back and forth? Are you worried about how the election will turn out?

I receive a weekly inspirational email from Brian Keel at Toledo YMCA corporate office. I thought I might share it here:

“Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. “ Romans 13:1

The quadrennial American trip though the mud is nearly over. Yes, I do mean the Presidential election, a process that seems to become more angry, divisive and hard to stomach with each go-around. Politics by its nature creates opposites...every issue has a camp for and against after all. But more and more that difference of opinion on issues quickly leads to anger, harsh words and attacks on a person’s very character.

I believe the verse above is clear. We are called to submit to, or show respect for, those who are elected to lead us. Just a few days ago Sen. Obama from Illinois showed up unannounced at the YMCA branch attached to our corporate offices for a morning workout. I disagree with the Senator on a variety of economic, political and social issues. But he had come to our facility not to discuss policy, but rather for a quick strengthening of the spirit, mind and body. And so I took the opportunity to observe him in a candid moment, to see him accept an offer of prayer from our YMCA pastor and even to shake his hand. In a few weeks he might be elected to lead our country and whether we agree with that decision or not, we must show respect to the office. I did it...it’s not as hard as you think…..

Those are great words.

In addition to this, the result of this election is really in God's hands. And as I shared last week, He works everything out for good for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28 paraphrased). The bottom line is that God is in control. Why worry if He has it taken care of?

I have heard it said, if you are going to worry, why pray? If you are going to pray, why worry? I would suggest we pray!

4 comments:

Jim said...

this is really hard to put into practice

Jim Lange said...

No doubt about it! I guess if it were easy, we wouldn't need God!

Adam said...

Jim~

I think this is a great point. I always agree with respecting whoever is in charge, regardless of agreeing or disagreeing.

Even our current President would receive a handshake and a prayer from me, regardless of differing views. Thanks for posting this.

Jim Lange said...

Thanks Adam! So how is married life? How is FLA? I hope you two are well!