Christians in Politics: Are you bringing light or darkness?
In any political debate, you should be a light for the Gospel. Snarky sarcasm, hidden jabs, passive aggressive statements, and deep anger are all signs you are probably not motivated by love.
Snarky sarcasm, hidden jabs, passive-aggressive statements, and deep anger are all signs that love may not be your motivation. Jesus sat with sinners because He knew that love and understanding—not judgment or rage—change hearts and minds.
Jesus Christ came to give us a second chance no matter how guilty we are. We have all fallen short of the glory of God. “If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.” 1 John 1:8-10
“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23
Why can’t we let people have a voice?
- Let people mourn without devaluing their pain by constantly pointing out the devil’s work—it only divides humanity further.
- Let people pray to find peace in the confusion and uncertainty that seasons like 2020 bring.
- Let people have their own opinions. Civil discussions are healthy, but Facebook reprimands rarely change hearts—they usually provoke more anger.
- Instead of judging others for what you perceive as inaction, let’s share persuasive steps for action.
Why are we so focused on being right?
After living and working in D.C. and finishing my master’s in political science, I realized that I was focused on being right more than being understanding. I wasn’t really absorbing what others were saying or feeling.
I’m not naturally confrontational, so constant disagreement took an emotional toll. Eventually, I took a long step back from politics because I was ashamed of my own heart and weary of others’ egos. But that season brought healing and perspective.
I began asking myself:
- Why do I have to be right?
- Is it my ego?
- Why can’t I understand someone’s pain or perspective without dissecting it logically?
- Are the perspectives of others valid?
- Could I be misinformed or ill-informed?
Related QUIZ: Am I prideful?
A call to pause and reflect
If you find that you can’t understand someone’s feelings or point of view, that’s a red flag. And if you don’t even care to sympathize, it’s time to pause, pray, and seek healthy conversations that expand your understanding.
It’s okay to ask questions and simply listen. That’s actually one of the foundations of democracy. Even if you’re highly opinionated, get multiple perspectives—because everyone’s “bubble,” “struggle,” and “perspective” is different.
Understanding is a skill that builds healthy relationships and real change. It allows you to plant seeds of truth and compassion that grow by God’s grace.
Heart before ego
I’m still learning, but as a middle school Civics teacher, I made it my mission to teach students this one principle: Lead with heart before ego. Want to ensure you’re leading with heart? Take the QUIZ: Am I prideful?
