Almost on a daily basis, we are confronted by various storms arising from social media that quickly take on a life of their own. Within minutes, scores of people are expressing outrage over the latest PR incident, often revolving around gender, race, or money. Many subsequently feel pressured to add their disdain. On top of all this, we are in the throes of election season. In Paul’s second letter to Timothy, he provides useful counsel to his disciple and down the ages. The apostle frames his exhortation against the most significant, yet most undervalued, backdrop: the return of Christ as King and Judge. Against this canvas comes his practical advice in 2 Timothy 4:5 – to ‘keep your head in all situations’.
What situations could warrant us to ‘keep our heads’?
Some may insist that their hot topic is a matter of life and death. Others may use the occasion to create a racially polarised and charged environment. Social media will likely be on overdrive, denouncing the latest gaffe and pressuring followers to do likewise. This is not to say that politics and current affairs are unimportant, far from it. Nevertheless, what must be brought to bear at all times is the Lordship of Christ, who is building an eternal kingdom that cannot be shaken.
Look at each party’s worldview
Mindful of this, we can keep our head in all these situations. We can be slow to speak and quick to listen. We can look carefully and Biblically at the worldview each party is putting forward, and make a sober assessment of the character of their leadership. We can keep our cool in the face of the latest online scandal. We can resist the temptation of political correctness, while treating people with differing political views with respect and civility. We can do all this, knowing that Christ is Lord and coming Judge.
Date published: 17/03/2019
Written by: Tendai Chitsike
Article source: JOY! Magazine
In casting our votes as Chritians we should vote with our minds not with the heart. Our hearts can deceive us but when we soberly consider the policies and leadership of each party as well as thirler values we will be able to make a correct assesment and vote wisely.