Friday, November 11, 2016

What the Outcome of this Election Taught ME

I was too vested in the outcome of this election; I wanted to be right as to why a different outcome made more sense, but it doesn't matter today.

This election made me realize that I took my eye off the goal; I was distracted by worldly endeavors; I was in and of the world. To be in the world is to be aware of what's going on around you; not oblivious. To be of the world is to participate in its processes as if those processes bear great weight in your life. It's easier to trust and exhibit faith when we can wrap our minds around it; when it's in line with our desires; when it's comfortable and life is good.

This election result forces me to realize that my faith will have to grow. That my faith may be tested out loud. That I'll truly have to embody the characteristics of Christ and love my enemies and bless them that curse me; that I will have to display a spirit of meekness and gentleness as I navigate what's ahead; that I should be a reconciler. The only way I can do all of this is through love. Yet it's not easy.
The Bible says - above all else, love. We are also encouraged not to grow weary in doing good.

You know how brands want bloggers to be influencers - yet it often feels so weird, especially if we've never used that brand? As an influencer, you have to use your blog and write a post that highlights the benefit of using that brand. As a result, there are benefits in store for you though it varies from brand to brand.

As Christians, we are called to be influencers for Christ. We are to let our light shine so people can see Christ in us. Our lives, actions, thoughts and everything else should be so different that others say, "I want what she has." Unfortunately, sometimes no one can tell the difference and this election highlighted that. This election underscored the divisions we have even within the body of Christ and how even Christians aren't gap-closers.

The Lord knew that this would be a complex and complicated task - being a Christian is not easy. Above all else, we are to love. Though the result of this election stuns us, it doesn't stun God - for He is all-knowing.

Have you ever studied so hard for a test, considered all variables thought you were prepared yet were devastated by your results because you didn't score well? That's how I felt about the election results.

However, this election result is the wake-up call we all needed because it will make us more vigilant and diligent about how we live; as Christians may it force us to rejuvenate our relationship with the One who holds everything in His hand.


Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit’s leading in every part of our lives. Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another. Galatians 5:25, 26 [NLT]

So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith. Galatians 6: 9,10 [NLT]


Does this serve as a wake-up call for you also?

6 comments:

  1. You're a mature Christian. Thanks for sharing your valuable faith lesson with the world! {hugs}

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  2. My sentiments exactly. Above all else, LOVE!!

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  3. Nylse, thank you so much for your thoughts. In the days ahead, we as believers in Christ must shine our lights brighter than ever before. There is much darkness. But you are so right in that God calls us to put on love. I like how the NLT version says to "clothe yourselves with love". Just like we put on our clothes on a daily basis, we can through the Holy Spirit put on the love of Christ--just as we put on the full armor of God! Thank you for using your blog as a way to influence others and impact those around you with Christ's love! Blessings to you, sister!

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  4. I had a discussion with a Christian co-worker and she told me the 3 platforms she used to vote for Trump. I told her that I only had one, to love. And kid you not she began to cry in front of me. I think it was at that moment she was convicted. It was the strangest thing because I did not expect her to cry. But I'm 100% with you. The outcome has taught me a lot and I'm ready to be a better example because of it. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, as always.

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