Phyllis Beveridge Nissila

“Elections have consequences.”

We hear this statement from both/all sides. We view its impact through history and in today’s headlines.

Those on the “winning side” smile, claiming to be the right choice for all; those on the “losing side” groan, and gear up for a future rematch.

And thus the world’s governance systems cycle.

But allow me to encourage any believers who may be discouraged today by the results of yesterday’s midterms in the United States, whatever outcome of whatever “race” is the cause of your dismay: don’t take your eyes off the prize.

There is a whole other world we are invited and urged to remain attuned to that supersedes any/all politics of a given day, nation, mind and heart.  It is the world of the Spirit that generates both seen and unseen, the genesis of ideas, ideologies, and faith.

This world  encompasses not merely the thirty-thousand foot view of what politics spin below of a given day or era, but the measureless, timeless view of beginnings and ends, good and evil,  love and hate, and we can read in the Bible of its outcome in prophecy both for nations and in hearts.

This, eternal, world has at the apex, Jesus Christ, “through Whom all things were made,” and through Whom all are redeemed. He would, I believe, want to encourage us thus:

“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NIV).

But what does that mean, exactly, when it comes to post-election stressors? 

Consider and be heartened–and emboldened–to carry on with what message “of “righteousness” you have been entrusted to reach your corner of influence in the world, be it in your family, neighborhood, work, and/or society at large, for each and all “occupying posts” are important.

And in these prophetic days that may get darker before they get better, may I also encourage you by “looking up” to Jesus’ soon return, as prophecy scholars teach, and to resist being mired by the discord “below.”

May I remind all of us to fix our gaze on Jesus Christ, pressing forward in the world and worldview that matters not just for now, but for eternity.

Carry on in Christ, Whose ultimate solution for all the ills on every winning–or losing–side of whatever, wherever, and whenever mankind’s “elections” are held, is eternal righteousness–and rightness–for those who put their faith not in world systems, but in Him.

Thus, no matter the temporal outcomes, we can be of good cheer and retain His “peace that passes understanding,” even now, and who knows? this might be one of those “witnesses” that draws some away from the encroaching darkness of the world’s political fray into some hope–for the very first time, or, for others, it may renew hope.

Here is a little background music to go with:

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jMYZICnV2Ys