By Tara Beattie
Since I was a child, my parents would always say not to engage others in politics. Well, sorry mom and dad, I did not heed that advice. As far as politics go, I have always been outspoken with regards to the candidates and the issues. Then 2020 hit and let’s be honest, people have lost their minds for sake of their political stance, myself included. I have been thinking about this election like many of you for a very long time. Some folks get excited about Halloween, not me! I get stoked about Election Day! I went to bed early last night to prep for a late night tonight and have my snacks and Black Rifle coffee ready for the late night ahead. Election Day is my jam! This year has been nothing short of outrageous. This year has presented so much division in this country over all things related to politics- i.e. wearing a mask, not wearing a mask and Trump versus Biden. People have been unfriended on social media platforms for voicing their opinions. Let me go ahead and emphasize the last word again…OPINIONS. You guys, everyone is entitled to their own thoughts and opinions on issues. We should not condone a person for an opinion that differs from ours. Just keep on scrolling or walk away. I will share that I vote based upon my Christian beliefs. I am unapologetically Christian and that is reflected in my voting history. When the voting is done and the decisions are rendered, I will continue to put my trust and my faith in Jesus not the human(s) elected to office. I am not putting Biden or Trump in the driver’s seat, it will continue to be Jesus who is in charge of the wheel. I have been leaning on 1 John 2:6, “The one who says he resides in God ought himself to walk just as Jesus walked.” That is a big, bold statement, but man it’s good, so good. It has changed my stance on how I will handle myself during this election. I am choosing to Speak Life. Our family, friends and the communities are hurting. So instead of arguing over who should be President, let’s walk how Jesus walked. Let’s do for others. Let’s speak life over others. Let’s be a part of the solution, not the problem. I would encourage you all to be an informed voter. Research, research, research. Before I put my support behind something, I do my research. If that candidate or organization does not align with my Christian belief system then I simply do not back that candidate or organization. I cannot emphasize enough, do your research. I have a spreadsheet that I fill out regarding the candidates from President to local offices. Please see above regarding the nerd comment. I told you I geek out. For the first time today, I am praying for all candidates and elected officials. So, let’s get real and biblical here; Trump and Biden were created by the Creator of Heaven and Earth. God created both these candidates. I know what you are thinking, has this girl ever picked up a Bible, of course God created both candidates. I was researching this election for my spreadsheet and I had an “ah ha” moment that shook me to my core. You guys, I realized that I had been reducing the other candidate to a point where they seem so vile that they were less than human. Gosh, that was a hard statement to swallow. Unfortunately, I do not think I am the only person to fall down this path of destruction. This revelation has truly changed the way I speak about the candidates and reaffirms that I am pressing into my faith not the outcome of who wins the election. Afterall, I do not remember Jesus saying to only pray for the candidates you support. You guys, our country needs healing. We need to see a movement of Christians hitting their knees and praying like never before. So, I invite you to join me in prayer for all the candidates today. Yes, all the candidates, not just yours. Then tomorrow let’s band together as a group of believers and pray for those who have been elected into office. Let’s stop the division in this country and come together as a community who prays together. 1 Timothy 2:1 ESV, “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanskgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” Press into this verse today, sweet friends. I know there is uncertainty around us but through Jesus our hearts find sweet, sweet FREEDOM. Lord, I pray for this election cycle. I am lifting and surrounding each and every candidate and their families in prayer, Lord I cannot imagine the stress and turmoil that an election can cause to a family but I know you can provide much needed peace and comfort in these times. I pray for peace no matter the outcome of this election. I pray for healing. I pray for division to end and unity to spark across this country. I pray for healing of hearts. I pray that as a community we come together in your name and get in the habit of building each other up. I pray that kindness replace hate. I pray that in all things, you get the glory you so deserve. It is in your mighty name I pray, Amen. Until next time, keep pressing in and encouraging others. https://livingproofchurch.net/content.cfm?id=3154&blog_id=1 #election-day, #election2020, #faithoverpolitics, #jesustakethewheel, #livingproofchurch, #lordhealourland, #lp, #pray, #vote, #youdecide