Allowing for Differences

Romans 14, respecting differences, Allowing for differences
American Christians are facing a Biblically complex national election next month. 

Opinions are strong about who to vote for or whether to vote at all. All sides have Scripture to back their decisions, but many are claiming that they alone speak for God. 

This same thing happens in theological and denominational debates when people who love Jesus and love the Bible come to different conclusions about non-essential doctrines.

Romans 14 discusses disagreements and preferences among genuine believers. It warns that "each of us will give an account of himself to God. Therefore let us not pass judgment on one another."*

Let's approach this election prayerfully, seeking to do God's will. 

And let's allow Christians to come to different conclusions about this election without discrediting their character or faith. 

Perhaps some of us will make the wrong choice, but God alone can judge whether we did our best to evaluate the Biblical principles involved and vote our conscience.

Therefore, "let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding." 
* Please don't think this is a command not to judge anyone or anything. We must judge people and issues in order to vote. This is a command not to judge other Christians for decisions that can be debated on both sides using Biblical principles.

I have strong views about this election, as most of you do. But I am careful to keep those views out of my devotions. Please don't write or comment about particular candidates in this election or give your view about whether it is Biblical to vote or not vote. I won't read those type of emails or publish those type of comments. This devotion is not about how to vote. It's about the best way to treat our fellow believers with whom we disagree. Thanks! Gail

4 comments:

  1. ...and all God's children said...AMEN!...blessings...laney

    ReplyDelete
  2. Very well said Gail! Bible Love Notes have been such a blessing. I thank God for leading me to your site, because I can't even recall how I came to it. God bless you and yours.

    ReplyDelete
  3. We rely on His Holy Sirit and our hoe in Him,thank you, helful message, blessings, shalom

    ReplyDelete
  4. I totally struggle with this. Politics and my personality do not mix. If have been struggling with what my heart really feels. Is it pride? Or self righteous? Or do I have legitimate feelings. Thank you for addressing this.

    ReplyDelete