Christ followers are often tempted to avoid the topic of politics because it can get pretty messy. People can get passionate about their politics. For many of us when we see blood vessels bulging and we feel the anger rising we just want to run the other way. I’d much rather talk about community group.
But to check out of the political process when we have the gift of participation is folly. There is a ditch on the other side of the road as well. To depend on the political process as the answer to every social ill is idolatry. What is needed is cool-headed participation at whatever level of political involvement you sense God leading you to, without forgetting that your citizenship is in heaven and that ultimately you serve the King of kings and Lord of lords.
All that being said, here’s the Brian Bailey guide to political involvement:
Value Policy over Personality
I saw a news piece last week that shared how the presidential candidates were both trying to portray themselves as “regular guys” who look straight into the camera and may even take off the tie. These ads are for people who may be swayed by seeing a candidate’s sleeves rolled up. “He seems like a nice, outdoorsy, hard-working fellow. He’s got my vote!” How shallow is that?
Some time ago I decided I’d rather have a jerk who promotes policies consistent with righteousness than a misguided good person promoting unrighteous policies. Of course, I’d rather have a good person with good policies, but that’s not always an option. Policies, not personality, are what impact the lives of people.
Performance over Promises
I may be a bit cynical in this area, but what political candidates say they’ll do and what they actually do are often worlds apart. Although they may be completely sincere when making campaign promises they always have to work with other people to actually get things done. Those other people may not be on the same page and may block proposed legislation. Also, believe it or not, candidates have been known to make promises they have no intention of keeping just to get votes. I know--it’s hard to believe.
A better indicator of future performance is past performance. What has the candidate stood for in the past? How effective has he been in bringing people together? How has he demonstrated effective leadership? What causes has he effectively advanced?
Prayer over Passivity
The Bible commands us to get involved in politics. In prayer God has invited us to participate with him in turning the hearts of kings. Through intercessory prayer we have political influence far greater than the vote. I’ve set an alarm on my phone to go off at 2:02pm each day. In obedience to I Timothy 2:1-2 my alarm reminds me of Paul’s exhortation “that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority….” Yep, I’m a political activist.
Brian
