Our Highest Loyalty Belongs to Jesus
Are you weary of political ads too? With Michigan’s close races, they seem endless. As we talked about the constant stream of political ads this week, we considered a larger question: How should Christian men respond to the growing discontent and division surrounding each election?
Elections can turn neighbors, friends, co-workers, and even relatives against one another. A simple political discussion can quickly become a heated dispute.
Men, have our political beliefs begun to take priority over our Christian convictions?
“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” —Philippians 3:20
As Christian men, we represent Jesus in every area of life, including elections and how we treat people who think differently. Whether Democrat or Republican, liberal or conservative, every person is created by God, and that truth must come first.
Political involvement and strong opinions on public issues are not wrong.
BUT our highest loyalty must never rest with a party, candidate, or movement.
MEN, OUR HIGHEST LOYALTY BELONGS TO JESUS.
Candidates and officeholders change, but this truth remains:
“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” —Hebrews 13:8
Imagine if this passage from James shaped every political ad and conversation:
“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” —James 1:19–20
These verses invite some honest reflection.
How often do we enter a conversation without listening well? How quickly do defensiveness and emotion take control? And that challenge applies to every conversation, not only political ones. As Christian men, we should be able to sit with someone who holds opposing views and still respond with dignity, respect, and kindness.
What happened to that spirit? Can the men of Seven24 help restore it?
Men, winning a political debate, or any dispute, means little if we miss the chance to demonstrate the love of Jesus.
“Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” —Ephesians 4:15
As Christian men, we must stand firmly for what we believe is right and speak with courage, but the way we communicate those convictions matters greatly. Courageous faith never excuses hurtful speech.
When any discussion grows tense, let’s remember this familiar passage:
“Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. DO EVERYTHING IN LOVE.” —1 Corinthians 16:13–14
As the final week before Election Day begins, we offer this prayer for all of us:
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