I did a good job of staying out of the whole political scene for the last 10-12 months. I did not watch much news, I did not read all that many reports. I simple did some research, developed my opinions, and then went back to doing the things that make up my daily life. It is not that I believe the political process is unworthy of my time; in fact it is almost just the opposite. Politics is one of two things that I avoid much like an alcoholic avoids, well alcohol.
These days I intentionally attempt to stay out of political discussions because I know myself, and I know how easy it is for me to fall back into an old trap... the trap of believing I can create real, meaningful change through intellectual discourse. You see, I am a rather intelligent person, and I have a good command of the English language. I am pretty charismatic in person, and I tend to be able to shape conversations toward my own ends regardless of who I am talking to and what we are talking about. I also tend to struggle with pride, but that is another topic.
This whole season has reminded me of that former self as I waded back into the waters of things like political, social, and economic systems. In a matter of two days I was already frustrated to the point where I was stressed all the time. Everywhere I went it seemed that I was seeing people who had either completely lost hope, or were placing their hope in a system, a person, or a political party. And it reminded me why years ago I decided not to enter into politics, but to become a minister. It is because I am convinced that the only Person who deserves such faith, because He is the only Person who can accomplish such results, is Jesus.
It is quite possible that the next four years could be great years for this country... just as the last 200+ have been. The economy could grow, wars could end, peace could reign, and in the middle of all of that I have to wonder who would get the credit? I know who deserves the credit, and the thing that has been really bugging me these last couple of days is that I see more hope being placed in men than I do in God. This really goes beyond political party, as some people seem to be in despair while others are jubilant. To both sides I find myself asking, "Was God not in charge a week ago? If things had happened differently would your 'faith' be different today?" I was at peace on Tuesday before any results came in because of two things. First, I had been obedient to what I believe is a God-called duty to vote. Second, I knew that God was in control regardless of what my ballot said. I am at peace once again today because I once again reigned in my Focus... taking it off of man-made systems and putting it back upon Jesus. He may choose to work through these man-made systems, but He has not chosen me to be a part of that process, and so my focus will remain on my calling.
Perhaps you are not a recovering Politicaholic like me and you can handle such discussions without any bad side effects. But, if you do find that Frustration begins seeping in to your thoughts, I would suggest you try the same remedy that works for me and Focus your mind on Jesus.
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