As I write this there is still more voting to come and pundits are still speculating. (I've even done my share. :) This particular election cycle seems to have been a little more stressful and intense. Even though there were no elections in Bible times, the timeless wisdom of the Bible still has a lot to say. A few thoughts...

First, don’t worry. No matter what happens Jesus is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. The person you really want may not be on the ballot, and you may feel like you are having to settle. But in the vast scheme of things, a politician’s term is only a blip in time. Remember that God is in control of all of history.

Second, remember those who vote differently than you are still your neighbors.

Third, remember that whoever the civil authority is should be respected and honored.

“Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to the governors, who are sent by him to punish those who do wrong and to commend those who do right. …Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God. Show proper respect to everyone; Love the brotherhood of believers, fear God, honor the king” (I Peter 2:13-14, 16-17).

We show we are Christians by how we respond even when things don’t go our way. We must continue to be good citizens and give those in authority respect, no matter who holds those positions.

The Apostle Paul echoes the words of Peter.

“Everyone must submit himself to the governing authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves… Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him; If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor” (Romans 13:1-3, 5-7).

When Paul and Peter spoke of Government being servants of God, their ruler was a dictator! The government was pagan, and not at all friendly to Christianity. Yet, as Christians, we are to respect authority as a sign that we know where all authority ultimately comes from. Will you join me in committing to pray for our future president, whoever that is, and future local political leaders? Let’s pray that they will govern wisely and justly. Let’s pray that they will resist political pressure and do what is right. Let’s pray for their health, their families and their well-being.

Finally, remember that all human government is ultimately temporary.

“The LORD foils the plans of the nations; he thwarts the purposes of the peoples. But the plans of the LORD stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations” (Psalm 33:10-11).

Don’t worry. No government or nation can thwart God’s purposes. In Him alone do we trust.