I was struck by a passage of scripture recently from Titus 3. It was a reminder that as God followers and believers in Jesus Christ we are called to a different type of political discourse and conversation than we often see in our world.

Now, I will admit that many people are much more passionate about politics than I am. I follow the news, I care about what is going on, and I pray for leaders whether I like their policies or not. In fact I pray for them even if I did not vote for them.  I hope you do as well. Scripture instructs us in that way. As Christians there is a correct way to engage in the political landscape and we sometimes need to be reminded of that.

That brings us to Titus 3:1-3. Here is what it says…. “Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to be gentle toward everyone. At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.”

Even though I am not passionate about politics I am glad that some people are.  We live in a free country that allows us to speak up, speak out, and keep the leaders accountable. We need that. However, the way we speak of people, policies, and parties needs to align with the Word of God. Titus 3 is one reminder but there are others in scripture as well.

Are we peaceable and considerate? Are we gentle? Or do our words fit in the categories of slander and foolishness? There is a way to speak up and still keep these ideals of positive discourse as a part of our witness.  The final verse of this passage talks about how we used to be. It speaks of a life before Christ, a life consumed by malice, envy, and hatred. That is not what we want to be known for; it is not what Jesus Christ was known for even though he engaged the political world sometimes.

I don’t know if your candidate or candidates won or lost during the most recent election, but I hope that you will pray for them either way. As you respond to things in our world that are not right, and there are many, keep the words and encouragement of scripture as your guide when there is a need to respond or speak up. This works well in our everyday relationships as well. Pray and ask the Lord to help you respond with peace and gentleness.