“Put not your trust in princes, in a son of man, in whom there is no salvation. When his breath departs, he returns to the earth; on that very day his plans perish.”  Psalm 146:3-4 

It is likely not realistic to describe political news as a stream—it’s more like a torrential flood. As we get closer to the upcoming elections this fall, the number of voices and the volume with which they speak will likely only increase.

I do not know how you think politically. I know many wonder how I think politically because of how silent I am on so many hot topics, let alone candidates. Let me outline for you my own thinking, and then let me offer some (hopefully) humble encouragement.

First, elections are an amazing privilege. The freedom to speak to who governs us is a remarkable freedom and blessing. Chronologically, and geopolitically, it’s also very rare. I truly cherish and praise God for the opportunities He has given us as a free society, and no matter how much many claim that we’re living under tyrannical influences (each side complaining about abuses by the other side), by any historical measurement, that’s a laughable complaint. Have you been reading our Community Bible Reading schedule through the books of Kings and Chronicles?

Second, all leaders are fallen. You’ll likely easily point out the flaws, failures and abuses of your political opponents, but can you do so as thoroughly for the leaders you adore? The author of Psalm 146 could just as easily be talking about King David as King Jehoram (yesterday’s reading) or Ahaziah (in today’s). It is blind allegiance that idolizes a political leader — whether it’s Hitler, Biden or Trump. And the Gospel teaches me that I am no better than any of them. I have betrayed my Maker and arrogantly sought my own place on His throne, so I am in no position to condemn them. Instead, I should (and can) pray for all of them.

Third, Jesus is the only enduringly good King. He’s the only True Owner and Creator of everyone and everything. He’s the only One with loving wisdom and total knowledge. He’s the only One who has wielded His greatest power to SAVE His enemies (people like you and me). And He’s the only One who has conquered our worst threat (death) and forgiven our deepest failures. No one else deserves my loyalty like Him.

So how can you evaluate your own perspective? How graciously (or not?) do you engage others about political topics? Be informed! Engage in the marketplace of ideas! Only do so in the perspective that eternity is not at stake in whatever topic your debating. That territory belongs to Jesus alone. How much hope are you investing in this particular “prince” or “princess?”  And why? Be careful to not attribute to any political leader capacities that belong rightfully to God alone.

Where should we rightfully look for hope? The psalmist concluded his reflection with vv. 5-10: “Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the LORD his God, who made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that is in them, who keeps faith forever; who executes justice for the oppressed, who gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets the prisoners free; the LORD opens the eyes of the blind. The LORD lifts up those who are bowed down; the LORD loves the righteous. The LORD watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin. The LORD will reign forever.”