I woke up early this Sunday morning with something heavy on my heart. As I scrolled through my feed, I couldn’t help but notice how divided our world has become. Some people are Democrats, others are Republicans, and every day it seems like friendships and families are being torn apart over political views.
Trash talking, hate, and downright disrespect flood social media. Behind keyboards, people say things most would never say face to face. And truthfully, I’ve found myself caught in that same storm frustrated, angry, and disappointed by posts that go against what I believe. I’ve told myself, “They’re crazy,” or “They need to do their research.” Looking back now, I realize I’ve been just as guilty. Some of my own comments were childish and prideful.
Yesterday was one of those moments that opened my eyes. I had a discussion with a lifelong friend who sees politics almost 180 degrees opposite of me. Our conversation quickly became a heated debate about who’s to blame for our government’s problems. We both thought we were right.
But then, in the middle of that back-and-forth, something hit me. I asked him one question:
“Do you believe in God and that Jesus died for our sins?”
Without even a pause, he said, “Yes, I do. I may not go to church every Sunday, but I do believe.”
In that moment, everything else faded. I completely forgot about his political beliefs, who he voted for, or what side of the fence he’s on. What mattered most was that we share the same faith. We might stand on opposite sides politically, but spiritually, we’re on the same team.
That realization humbled me. It reminded me that politics are temporary but salvation is eternal. Governments rise and fall, parties shift, and leaders change, but God’s love and grace never do.
I told him, “Honestly, I don’t care what side you’re on politically, but I do care where you stand spiritually. Because we’re commanded to love our neighbors.”
So I’m challenging myself and you to ask this question:
Eternal Life or Political Pride Which Comes First in Your Life?
Are we valuing our political views more than another person’s soul? Are we allowing debates and differences to blind us from what truly matters our shared need for grace, forgiveness, and salvation through Jesus Christ?
At the end of the day, no political party will get us into Heaven. No candidate can redeem our sins. Only faith in Jesus can do that.
So the next time we find ourselves ready to argue, maybe we should pause and remember that we’re called to love, not divide. To lift up, not tear down. To care more about eternity than election cycles.
Because when the votes are long forgotten, and the headlines fade away, only one thing will truly matter where we stand with God.
