Read Time: 4 minutes
As we approach one of the most significant elections in recent history, it’s essential to consider how our children perceive the issues at hand. Depending on their age, they may have varying levels of understanding regarding the election. Shaping the next generation to think biblically about politics goes beyond merely determining which candidate wins; it’s about equipping our kids with discernment, empathy, and a Christ-centered approach to engaging with the culture and the world around them.
First, we must realize that we are living as exiles in a world that is not our home. As born-again Christians, our citizenship is in Heaven, and we are simply abiding here on Earth as exiles.
Jeremiah 29:7 says, “Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf; for in its welfare you will have welfare.”
As Christians, we are called to seek the welfare of the places where we build our homes, work, and raise our children. Our goal isn’t merely to “Save America,” but to thrive as exiles and reach the people around us with the love of Christ. In Jeremiah’s message to the exiles, he emphasizes a posture of active presence—not withdrawing or isolating, but fully participating in the community. We must model this for our children, showing them what it looks like to live out a biblical worldview in real, everyday issues.
Pastor Josh Howerton said, “Many of our issues at hand today were Biblical truth before they were ever political statements.” We must be clear that God’s Word shapes our political convictions—not the other way around. Our faith must never be malformed by political views. Scripture is unambiguous about God’s design for humanity—how He created man and woman, marriage, sexuality, etc. We must stand firm in what God has revealed about these issues, even when they feel politically charged.
Our children will be discipled by something—let’s ensure they are discipled by the truth of God’s Word, not by the shifting currents of culture.
Barna Research released new studies recently that approximately 32 million Christians are expected to sit out on Election Day. That staggering number becomes more important when you think that a mere 42,921 votes decided the 2020 election. This emphasizes the importance of our vote and having our voice heard.
We must be careful not to place so much faith in politics that it becomes an idol or a savior. Our problem isn’t political—it’s spiritual. No political solution can fix what only a Savior can heal. Sin requires the solution that only Christ provides. Our focus must remain on growing and advancing God’s kingdom. As we engage with each other on challenging topics, we need to remember this: compassion without courage isn’t enough, and courage without compassion falls short. We must pursue a balance of both as we engage with those around us.
Rather than looking to the left or the right, we need to look up to the Savior of the world. Someone may get our vote, but only Jesus gets our heart, church.
Prayer Prompts:
- Pray for the salvation of our leaders.
- Pray for Christians to step into positions of leadership in local, state, and national government.
- Pray for opportunities to share the Gospel with someone this week.
- Pray for unity among believers as they engage in political discussions and actions.
- Pray for wisdom and discernment for those making decisions that impact our communities.
Toddler-Preschool: Focus on simple principles of kindness, serving others, and choosing leaders.
- Isaiah 1:17
- Books: The Garden, The Curtain, and The Cross by Carl Laferton
- God: Big Theology for Little Hearts by Devon Provencher
Elementary: Explain basic structure and concepts about government and legislature. Understand evil and good and freedoms from God.
- Matthew 22:21 God’s image is on everything; we should see His name praised.
- Matthew 5:13 Salt of the Earth. We are here for a purpose.
- www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0k7ZdnHmGg
MS/HS: Have deeper conversations about current issues and how our Biblical convictions align with policies and issues.
- Romans 13:1 The role of government.
- 1 Samuel 16:7 God looks at the heart
- Matthew 5:13 Salt of the Earth. The point of salt is to slow decay and to purify.
- Philippians 3:20: But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.
- www.youtube.com/watch?v=OEqUczerLng
Other Resources:
Leave a Reply