I grew up outside the Nation’s capital. We lived on streets named for Founding Fathers and drove on the Beltway to get to the mall. When we picnicked we sat on the lawn of the United States Capital building, and I went on dates to monuments and strolled by the White House. When I was in middle school, my best friend’s dad was an advisor to the President. In high school my BFF’s dad was a senator. Things like elections and politics were neighborhood news to us. Before I really understand that my ultimate citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20), my patriot’s heart burned hot for my earthly homeland. Wave a flag and the breeze will be enough to stir the embers of my nationalism into a quick flame.

I’ve had the privilege of visiting many other countries around the world, and it’s helped me to see my own nation more clearly. The contrast has encouraged me to be grateful, but it’s made me more realistic about our flaws. Presidential election season seems to arouse both in me; it’s not hard to stir up my political sails and make the hair on the back of my patriotic hairs on the back of my neck stand on end. Watching last night’s debate left me with a full mind. It wasn’t easy to fall asleep after that. The whole election thing could rob us of our peace.

It was a teachable moment as my two teens watched the debates with me.  Is our response any different from someone who doesn’t claim citizenship in heaven? My friend Kristi Stephens shared a great post that gives anyone who trusts in God confidence and comfort despite uncertainty in government and nations. We read it together last night after the debate. How does a Christian respond to an event of such importance in the here and now?

There’s one more official debate, but we all know there will be many “unofficial” ones in between. Are YOU ready? If you feel yourself getting stirred up, remember that God calls us to have hearts that, “revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 1 :15).  There are times when we the Holy Spirit prompts us to speak up, and scripture directs us to, “Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person” (Colossians 4:5-6).

With God’s truth as an election season guide, here are 10 answers to have ready for “off the stage” conversations with your family members, neighbors, co-workers, or that random sign holder.  I think I might begin by telling MYSELF these truths!

10 Things to Say About The Election

1. God raises up rulers on the earth. (Daniel 2:20-23)
2. God can turn the hearts of rulers. (Proverbs 21:1)
3. God established the nations. (Romans 13:1, Job 12:23)
4. God knows all of our days. (Psalm 139:16)
5. God is the ruler of everything. (Acts 7:48-50)
6. God says King Jesus will rule the earth. (Luke 1:32-33)
7. God wants us to pray for our earthly rulers. (1 Timothy 2:1-2)
8. God doesn’t want us to fear man. (Isaiah 51:7)
9. God tells us to practice answering wrath with gentleness. (Proverbs 15:1)
10. God will be honored by every person one day. (Isaiah 45:22-24)