Connecting Point: Keeping Your Balance in a Country at Odds

Are you tired of political bantering? It is incredibly complex. But, does it need to be? Every issue seems to be politicized, medicine, immigration, the environment, social justice, even sports. During the 2021 NCAA tournament, commentator Charles Barkley said, “I think most white and black people are great. I really believe that in my heart. But I think our system is set up where our politicians, whether they are Republican or Democrat, are designed to make us not like each other so they can keep their grasp of money and power. They divide and conquer.” I tend to agree with Barkley.

As our nation is grappling with these difficult issues I believe as Christians we will continually be trying to find a delicate balance. Political matters are like a field inundated with landmines scattered everywhere. If you make the wrong move…boom! Some swing from the one end of the spectrum, choosing to remove themselves from all political discussion. Others are driven to the opposite end of the spectrum choosing to be completely engaged. Some of these are forceful in their politics. The “box the ears” of listeners. As Christians can we ignore politics? Is that our duty? Or, are such people afraid? Angry? Disillusioned, or some other straddle of issue? Is it our responsibility as Christians to solve every matter of our society? Here are some suggestions to consider. Remember the goal of having Candid Conversations is completely healthy for us as Christians.

One, understand that governing styles aren’t an end all; God is in charge. Throughout history countries have seen a variety of systems. A fundamental factor we must keep in mind as believers in Jesus Christ, God is sovereign over everything including government. Jesus spoke to this while being tried unjustly: “Then Pilate said to Him, ‘Are you not speaking to me? Do you not know that I have power to crucify you, and power to release you?’ Jesus answered, ‘You could have no power at all against me unless it had been given you from above,’” (John 19:10-11).

The next thing we need to do is pray for leaders. I can be better at this too. Perhaps the Apostle Paul provides us with another great example of trusting in God’s sovereignty. Keep in mind, Paul was imprisoned during the reigns of Roman tyrants like Nero and Caligula; they are responsible for annihilating scores of Christians. Romans 13 is well known for its teaching about submitting to authority. Paul told Timothy “to pray...for kings and all who are in authority. That we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence,” (I Timothy 2:2).

Finally, biblical wisdom provides some constraints for us as Christians. Balance is required. If the Apostle Paul were “woke” he would have led a revolt and proclaimed, “Nero is not my king.” However, this is not the case. His agenda was for eternity. He led by example. You could say, “He was more concerned with preaching the Gospel of Jesus.” We are fortunate for Paul’s example.