Dear Friends,
We are three weeks away from Election Day and it seems everything/everyone is a buzz about it. Too often, I find myself and others anxious and overly distracted by it. Almost every conversation I have inevitably shifts to the election. We’re inundated with political flyers, phone calls, television news, and yard signs. Most of which are negative. The topic often seems impossible to avoid. I have sensed the anxiety level building in both myself and others. Just the other day I was talking to one of my neighbors who was terribly upset by the upcoming election, regardless of the outcome. Whether it’s the looming decision of voting for the “lesser of two evils” or concern over the recent firebombing of the Republican headquarters in Hillsborough, we must seek peace outside ourselves to gain peace in our hearts to withstand our fears.
Now don’t hear what I’m not saying. Am I saying that we should back off from doing all we can to get out the conservative vote this election? Most definitely not! God has not called us to faith alone but to good works as well. (James 2) Yet if like me you find yourself at times anxious about current affairs, I encourage you to stop and spend some time building your faith by meditating on God’s Word. Then go back to the work at hand.
Here are some verses that have often quieted my heart and spirit.
“Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him. He alone is my rock and my salvation, my fortress where I will not be shaken.” (Psalm 62:5-6)
Whenever we are drawn to any uncomfortable topic, remember God always directs us to “cast our cares on Him.” (1 Peter 5:7)
“Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” (2 Corinthians 13:11)
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:4-7)
In Christ,
Jill Coward
State Director
CWA of North Carolina
director@northcarolina.cwfa.org
nc.cwfa.org