Ridgell's Originals

I have been told by a number of Christians who I should vote for for President.  Some have a strong opinion, some are adamant, some find it incredible that I might not agree with them.  Some are sure of the candidate God wants elected.

There are a number of reasons given for supporting a candidate.  Some see it as a character issue -- tho it seems to be much more about what is wrong with the other candidate than what is right with the one they support.  Others make their case on what they believe is best to keep -- or to restore -- America as a Christian nation.  Some advocate for the candidate that they think will best preserve our Christian convictions and protect us from persecution.

But here is what I wonder... what if God does not see it your way?

Full disclosure:  I am not voting.  The Kingdom I belong to is not of this world.  It is not bound by geographic or political boundaries.  My Kingdom will outlast America and every other kingdom of this world.  My Kingdom cannot be defeated.  The ruler of my Kingdom is Jesus.  His will is going to be done.

But I am interested in this election.  I have prayed about it.  I want God's will to be done in this election.

But here is what I wonder...

What if God does not view us as a Christian nation and he knows that the church will be stronger if persecuted?

What if God wants us to live in a culture that is not "Christian" so that our light will shine brighter?

What if God does not want us deceived into thinking that we are a Christian nation and so we lose the passion to tell people about the real Kingdom?

What if God wants us to live radical lives of forgiveness in a culture that does not honor God?

What if he wants us to serve intently in a selfish world so people will see a different way to live?

What if God wants us to speak boldly the good news of Jesus into a culture that is full of bad news?

What if God's plan is not to do what is best for a country of this world but what is best for his kingdom?

What if his plan is to do what is best to awaken a hunger for joy, peace, hope, and purpose in a lost and hurting world?

What if his will is to have someone elected that gives us more opportunities to speak Jesus?

Maybe God wants us to be love and grace in a world of hatred and anger.  Even if our candidate loses.

So God there is lots I do not know or understand.  But I want our world to know your Son.  I pray your will be done in this election.  I pray we will live, serve, and speak with courage and conviction.  I pray for the outcome that gives the best opportunity for our witness and testimony to be seen and heard.  And I pray that we will be like your Son on November 8.  And every day after that.  No matter who wins this election.  And thank you for letting us belong to a Kingdom that will last forever.