True Love in The Voting Booth

I have a lot on my mind today, Lord.

Later this year, we will be voting in what I believe may be the most important presidential election of my lifetime.  So what is the latest political “weather” forecast?

100% chance of Anger.  Heavy accumulation of Insults and Personal Attacks expected.  Widespread Damage likely.

“Each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor… In your anger do not sin.  Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.”  (Ephesians 4:25-27)

There is reason for anger in our day, Lord.  So many hopes disappointed.  So many promises broken.  So much gridlock and self-dealing.

There is also reason for concern.  For vigilance and wisdom.  The world is becoming more dangerous and unpredictable.  And Real Danger + Perceived Naivete and/or Ineptitude + Apparent Inaction is a formula for…

Yep… More anger.

Which came first, Lord?  The Anger or the Exploitation of Anger?  Candidates speaking anger morning, noon and night.  “We the people” feeling anger to varying degrees and from varying perspectives.

Both exploding like water on a gasoline fire.

What is all this anger accomplishing for us, Lord?  Where is it leading us?  What — or who — are we putting our trust in, to get us out of this mess?

Long ago, Your people wanted a king.  Their request reflected a deeper heart issue… didn’t it, Lord?  You were not enough for them.  They wanted more.

As if any earthly king could offer more than You, Lord.

“And the Lord told [Samuel]:  Listen to all that the people are saying to you; it is not you they have rejected, but they have rejected Me as their king… forsaking Me and serving other gods… warn them solemnly and let them know what the king who will reign over them will claim as his rights.”  (1 Samuel 8:7-9)

Who will be the best leader for us, Lord?  The one who shouts the loudest?  Insults the most?  Denigrates all who disagree?  The one who lies the most?  Or the best?

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen… Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.”  (Ephesians 4:29-31)

What criteria will we use to select our next leader?  The one who can win?  When does “winning” actually become losing?

Where will You, Lord, fit into our deliberations?  What are we praying for?  What we want the most and need the least?

Yes, Lord.  I have a lot on my mind today.

What is on Your mind about all of this?

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.”  (Matthew 22:37)

Please show us, Lord, how to take that to the streets.  And to the voting booth.

Abba’s Girl

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