2020 November news letter article

Hello brothers/sisters,
       This month, I am responsible to put together this newsletter.  For this reason [ask Pastor Jim about the General Sickles mind-set], I am taking the cheap way out of writing a real article.  Below, you’ll find an article that has resonated with me for several years now.  In an increasingly divided world, let’s treat our neighbor with grace.  Passed along to me by Dr. Robert D. Jones, my biblical counseling professor in seminary, it was written in 2012.  Written by Tim Sellers, President of PeacePoint <www.peacepoint.com>, this article nicely calls attention to the outcome of the “hope and change” election.  May God use us as agents of grace whether “our” candidates win or lose.  Let’s always view socio-political issues by maintaining a proper gospel-centered perspective.
 
He’s got the whole world in His hands,
--A.J.

​

Hope and Change that Last!                                             (Tuesday, November 6, 2012)

Today, we elect those who will lead us.  It is a very big deal.  The opportunity to choose our leaders is one of the most precious freedoms we enjoy in America.  Men and women have put their lives on the line to protect and preserve it.  It is a gift from God, and we have a responsibility to exercise the privilege carefully and prayerfully.

Also today, many people woke up anxious.  They are worried about whether "their" person will win because they believe all hope for the future hangs in the balance.  Tomorrow, many will wake up angry and discouraged because their person lost.  They believe with that defeat went any chance for prosperity or peace.

That should not be so for those of us who belong to God through the Lord Jesus.  Our hope should never be based on the outcome of an election but on God alone.  What King Nebuchadnezzar had to be taught, we should know: that the Most High is sovereign over the kingdoms of men and gives them to anyone he wishes (Daniel 4:25, N.I.V.).  God is sovereign over this election as He is over all of the affairs of men.  Regardless of the outcome, we have the promise that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purposes (Romans 8:28, E.S.V.).  Because our God is in total control, we have no reason to share in the anxiety, anger, or disappointment that may be around us.

Others will be watching how we Christians react to the vote.  Today, tomorrow, and in the days ahead, we have an opportunity to show them, by our words and our actions, that our trust is in God, not in laws or leaders. Because He is who He says He is, our future is secure.  With our country so divided, it is critical for Christians to unite, no matter who we may have supported for office.  That will get attention and provide us with openings to share the really Good News...that Jesus is alive and offers hope and change that lasts!

Let's all vote.  Then, let's live like the outcome doesn't matter.  For believers, it doesn't.  Regardless of the final tally, we win!  Praise God!