I am reading through the book of Proverbs during my devotions. This morning I could relate almost every verse I read to the political climate of our nation; phrases like ‘wicked ruler,’ and ‘helpless people’ seemed to resonate as I attempt to process the tension in our land. Each side will have their own interpretation of those terms but it saddens me that there even are sides within the Church.

Verse 26 of chapter 28 declares, “He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom is kept safe.” I think this is what Christians need to take to heart: leaning on our own understanding is foolish at best, dangerous at worst. I have been stunned to hear that many who claim the name of Christ are minimizing His words as they determine what matters in a presidential election. As Christ-followers, shouldn’t we seek the ultimate source of wisdom in every aspect of life?

Verse 21 of the same chapter reads, “To show partiality is not good – yet a man will do wrong for a piece of bread.” I am right there with you when it comes to wanting to view my candidate of choice with rose-colored glasses. This verse was convicting to me because it revealed how subtly partiality can creep into a decision-making process where personal gain is at stake. In today’s situation, Christians need to be the referees who are partial only to God’s Word, even when it results in backlash from angry citizenry.

Finally, “He who conceals his sins does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.” The Church in America has become too comfortable in the ways of the world; we blend in, adopting the trends of materialism and modern thinking as our own. We don’t want to offend by holding to a biblical worldview; we nod our heads and apologize for our faith, hoping to be seen as tolerant. We use contemporary definitions as we interpret life rather then biblical ones and we seek to appease the people rather than provide a convicting contrast. And yet we have the audacity to request God’s blessing on us? It is time for God’s people to fall on our knees and plead for mercy before He brings us to them Himself.