I know we are all concerned about the election, and I can't count the number of times I've read it is the most important election in history. There are so many things at stake really. I wonder how this election will change history. I wonder if voters are educating themselves on the issues. I wonder how those who are voting in their first election are responding to all the hype and attention. I've read from several bloggers that they aren't commenting on the election which is their choice and I respect that. I have a couple things on my heart, though, so while I'm not trying to start some debate, I also feel I can't just be quiet and not say anything.
Many states will be voting regarding the definition of marriage. Recently in the celebrity news blurbs on the back of our daily newspaper I've seen two "big names" (Steven Spielberg and Brad Pitt) each donating a hundred thousand dollars opposing Proposition 8 in California. Also today I read an email that Google was opposing Prop 8. Because of this, one man is choosing to use a new search engine. All of this got me thinking: What can I do to make a difference? I don't have a hundred thousand dollars to give to a cause I support. Should I ban Google as well? It would be easy to use a new search engine, no problem. But there are a lot of other functions of Google I use from this blog to a bunch of the other blogs I read. Where do you draw the line on supporting companies that openly support lifestyles that are contrary to God's truth? For example, I know of some companies that have recently been in the news for their support of gay "marriage." I can refuse to support those companies, but how do I know that a product I buy 100% doesn't support things I don't support? If you have thoughts on this, please share.
With all the differing viewpoints that bombard us each day, I'd like to share a few things that I've found to be beneficial. First, I think we need to pray. I received an email, you may have received it too, that asks Americans to stop and pray about the election for one minute at 8 p.m. each night. I clearly believe we need to cover this election with our prayers and need to be praying continuously. I think it would be so powerful for millions of Americans to make a commitment to stop what they are doing at this time each night and say a prayer. Will you think about joining me in this? I set the alarm on our cell phone as a reminder to stop and pray.
Marsha has posted an election prayer guide. I printed this out today and think it will be a useful tool.
Third, I'd like to share a song by Casting Crowns called "While You Were Sleeping." You can read the lyrics and about the song through this link (it is song #7 if you want to scroll down). I found it on God Tube for you to watch as well. The lyrics really make you think about our country and the direction it is headed.
Finally, today in our daily Bible readings I was greatly encouraged and wanted to share this with you as well. My heart has been heavy after reading a blog post about the election and this person's reason for selecting the candidate for which he'll vote. His logic makes no sense to me and what concerns me is if he has these thoughts as an educated Christian, what are others thinking and basing their choice upon? The first verses were Philippians 1:27--2:17. This encouraged me to have faith and not give up. The second one was Proverbs 24:11, 12. I liked the version from The Message too. When I read this I immediately thought of those unborn babies killed in abortions. I am no Bible scholar and I think this passage is probably referring to those who are unjustly accused of wrong when they are innocent. But it made me think of the babies; they are innocent. It touched my heart to read verse 12. God isn't going to listen to our excuses. We do know the babies are being killed. Are we doing anything about it? This can be applied to many areas. We know the things that are going on that are against truth. What are we doing about it? It was God's perfect timing that those were the passages in today's reading. I felt it was His truth speaking to my heart.
We as Christians we need to take a stand. We need to be bold and not apologize for the views we have. We need to hold to truth. We need to present that truth and not be scared we'll offend someone. We need to share the hope we have in this crazy, messed up world. We need to shine like stars. We need to keep our faith in God, trusting that everything is in His hands.
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"Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life—in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing." Philippians 2:14-16
5 comments:
You are right. I think the poeple who are going to vote for Obama have different priorities then most Christians. They support abortion. They supoprt gay marriage. They are in fact educated on their decisions, they just are making the wrong decisions!
I willbe praying for these candidates and this election. I know that eaither way, no matter who wins, God will use it for His good.
Many blessings-
Amanda
P.S. I wrote this on the Message...
http://iammommy.typepad.com/my_weblog/the-message/
check it out if you want...but no worries if you dont! Blessings
Good article on The Message, Amanda.
Bethany,
How I loved your post! I, too, have been disheartened by what I have read.
I have quite the story to tell about this but I won't put it all in your comment section...you and I can talk about it another day.
I loved what you said about praying and being aware and knowing God is in control. The abortion issue is particularly difficult for me. I saw on one blog a person I know to be a seasoned christian standing by silently while another person (Obama supporter) justified killing innocent babies because christians believe they go to heaven and telling us to be more concerned about Muslims. I cried for two days! Then my hubby sat with me and prayed prayed prayed.
I have decided not to go to those sites that are unhealthy or show me ignorance. My spirit is too tender...I'm going to pray. It's my joy to stand in the gap for the unborn. It's my joy to stand in the gap for godly principles in our nation again!
Blessings to you Bethany for voicing your heart on this post. Brave girl. I'll be praying with you at 8!!
I certainly agree and have been praying a lot about this election. It really scares me to think of the consequences if the wrong person is elected. I get so frustrated with the Republicans when they don't stand up to the Dems and point out to the world what is really going on when they blame George Bush and the Republicans for everything. It's a good thing I don't have high blood pressure. I'm sure it would be through the roof. It is appalling how much ignorance there is out there. Not only ignorance but down right deceit.
In all these things, we need to press in really close to God. God's love is so overwhelming. He loves everyone. Everyone.
Whenever I think that I need to do something... that's the time I need the most to do nothing except abide... and hang out with God. Wait on Him to direct my heart.
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