Loving Others Through Election Season and Beyond
With the election here, emotions can run high, and it’s easy to get swept into the intensity of opinions and preferences. Yet, as Christians, our highest calling remains—to love others, no matter what. Whether in the heat of political conversations, the workplace, or our day-to-day interactions, we are called to love first and foremost.
The Bible reminds us of this truth. Jesus Himself said in John 13:34, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” When Jesus spoke these words, He didn’t place conditions on that love based on political affiliation, differences of opinion, or life choices. He simply called us to love.
Over the years, I’ve learned just how much this command costs—and how much it’s worth. My journey has been filled with moments when I felt alone, overlooked, and uncertain of what direction to take. When I found myself facing homelessness, it was the compassion and love of others that reminded me I was still seen, still valued, and that there was a path back. Now, that same love is what I strive to extend to others, especially during challenging times like these.
It’s natural to want a certain result in any election, but what if we shift our prayers? Instead of only asking God for the outcome we desire, let’s also pray for our response to whatever God allows. Romans 13:1 reminds us that “there is no authority except that which God has established.” No matter who ends up in leadership, we can trust that God is in control and has a plan. He invites us to lean into His sovereignty, knowing that He alone gives authority and allows it for His purposes.
As someone who has seen God redeem some of my most difficult moments, I know He can work through anything. My experiences have taught me that even when life feels uncertain or even out of control, God is right there, extending His grace and preparing a way forward.
So, what does it look like to love others well during and after the election?
At the Polls: Show kindness and patience. Remember that every person in line has a unique story, and whether or not they share your views, they’re loved by God.
In Conversations: If you’re discussing politics, consider listening first. James 1:19 advises, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” Practicing patience and humility in conversations reflects the heart of Christ.
In Everyday Life: Whether at work, the grocery store, or in traffic, we’re surrounded by people who may be carrying burdens we don’t see. Let’s choose to extend grace and patience to everyone around us, following Paul’s advice in Ephesians 4:2: “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.”
Loving others doesn’t mean we agree on every issue. Instead, it means we prioritize God’s command to love above our differences. Let’s strive to be known by our compassion, patience, and humility, standing out as beacons of Christ’s love in a divided world.
Through my journey, I’ve seen how God can take even the most broken paths and make them straight. Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” This truth has held me through the toughest parts of my journey, and it’s one I hold close as we move through this season.
In all things, let’s show love—at the polls, at work, and in every interaction. We’re called to be a light, to extend the love God has shown us, and to trust that He’s already working for His purposes, no matter what the future holds.
