When Our Politics Become Our Religion

This morning as I contemplate the world around me I am left feeling sad and deeply concerned for the future of the United States of America, but more so, for the future of the Christian faith, probably for reasons different from what you think.

I am so very concerned because we are more able than ever to see what is truly in a person’s heart and mind by what they put on social media. What I’ve seen of some of my Christian friends, as well as other’s who identify themselves as Christ-followers, has led me to wonder if their politics has become their religion.

Billy Graham once said, “Give me five minutes with a person’s checkbook, and I will tell you where their heart is.” This is still a very true statement and holds the same value when it comes to social media. We can tell a lot about a person’s true character by what they choose to share on various social outlets.

I get it, I truly do. Sometimes our politicians can be downright infuriating and make us want to say and do things out of character. But, is it the right thing to do? There are things shared that humiliate other people. Is that who we want to be? Sharers of things that hurt someone else? 

Social media has made it so easy to hide behind a screen. We giggle at someone else’s misfortune and think it so innocent to hit the like or share button without regard to the humiliation trail left behind for someone we don’t even know. Social humiliation isn’t just for kids anymore.

Disclaimer: Many years ago I wrote an article in a moment of utter frustration over the then political climate. Though I meant every word of that article, I should never have published it. Why, because it diminished my faith in Jesus and, for a brief time, turned my politics into my religion; something I never want to happen again. Jesus is my focus and I want to do everything I can to make sure He is never diminished again.

I took down that article a long time ago and vowed to not post anything like it again. When we learn better, we do better. So thankful for grace.

That said, please know this is not a chastisement as much as it is a warning of what’s to come if we do not get a handle on the abundant availability of showing our inner thoughts to the world. Sometimes, inward thoughts need to stay there, or at the very least only be discussed in a forum worthy of humble, peaceable, debate with others who want to learn and grow too.

I also want to give a warning concerning where we get our news. Please be careful what you believe on any news channel. Liberal and Conservative alike can spin the truth. If it’s of concern, look deeper until you find the truth, but please do not believe everything you hear or read. And, please, do not share it unless you are 100% sure if it is indeed truth and if it’s a truth worth telling. After all, don’t we want to be part of a solution rather than part of a problem?

And lastly, as Christ-followers, we are to pray for our leaders whether we like them or not. They need our prayers so very much!

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” 1 Timothy 2:1-2

Notice the scripture referenced above does not say to only pray for those we like. Whether we like or dislike any of our political leaders, from our own backyards to Washington DC, we are called by our Creator to pray for them. Pray for their safety, that they would have godly wisdom, to be grounded in humility, for their families (political life cannot be easy for them), their ability to find unity and common ground with one another, and any other prayer the Holy Spirit prompts you to pray. Pray and pray often.

I’d love to start a movement. One where we all pledge to stop the nastiness of social media. Will you join me? Will you commit to liking, sharing, and commenting only on things that Jesus would find acceptable? I’m thinking sharing this article is a good place to start. 🙂 

Heavenly Father, we humbly ask for your help in committing to being people who lead others to You rather than from You. We pray for our Nation and for our leaders. We ask for your protection over their health and the health of their families. We ask for You to change the hearts that need to be changed and to help all of our leaders to come together for the good of this great Nation. We humbly ask for forgiveness for ever being part of the problem and ask for You to guide us as we move ahead to being good witnesses of Your grace and love. We love You more than words can say. In the matchless name of our Lord, Savior, and Friend, amen.

In His embrace,

Toni

8 comments to When Our Politics Become Our Religion

  • Nancy Yoshida  says:

    Great article Toni, I share these feelings completely. You can count on me to join you in this endeavor of posting only things that Jesus would like.
    Love you,
    Nan

    • Toni  says:

      Thank you Nancy!!! We may not be able to change the world, but we can help change our little piece of it.

      Missing you!

  • Donna lukens  says:

    Thank you Toni for reminding us that our actions speak louder than our words. When we only focus on the negative news we forget who our King is and who is always in control. Thank you for your time and effort for writing to us I look forward to hearing from you
    God bless you

    • Toni  says:

      Thank you so much Donna! Your encouragement means so much!

      We serve the King of Kings! He alone is worthy of our time and praise.

      God bless you sweet friend.

  • Marjorie  says:

    The majority of people are very tired and sad about what is happening. It is hateful, vengeful, despicable, nasty, insulting, and I blame media for allowing the garbage to be on (from both sides). Our 24/7 news has become nothing more than a sounding board for people with few sensibilities. When Hollywood states, “I thought about blowing up the White House,” to showing the bloodied head of our President, it is NOT okay.
    God is working with us. We have to listen to Him and do His will. Tune hate out but stay tuned to God! He is in control.

    • Toni  says:

      Amen Sister!!! Well said!!! With God all things are possible. If those of us who walk with Him will start posting nice things, maybe others will follow suit.

      I sure miss you!

  • Sheila Qualls  says:

    The state of affairs in our country is sad today. So much happening, so little time. Thanks for reminding us who is in control. Makes big problems look small.

    • Toni  says:

      Hi Sheila,

      Yes, it is sad. I’m so thankful we have the opportunity to bring joy to our individual corners of the world. If God’s people lead we will create a ripple to reach the ends of the earth.

      God bless you and yours!

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