As we move through another heated election season, it's easy to become overwhelmed by political discourse, endless debates, and the polarization that grips our society. For Christians, the question often arises: how do we engage with government while staying true to our faith? Romans 13 offers some challenging yet powerful guidance, reminding us of the balance between submission to authorities and maintaining an unwavering allegiance to Jesus.

In Romans 13:1, Paul writes, “Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God.” At first glance, this can be hard to grasp, especially when we see leaders or systems that seem corrupt or unjust. But Paul wrote these words to Christians living under the reign of Nero, a Roman emperor notorious for his cruel persecution of believers. Yet, Paul calls them to recognize that God is sovereign and ultimately uses all of history—good and bad—for His purposes.

This doesn’t mean God approves of every leader or government action, but it does mean He is in control. For Christians, this truth should bring peace, even when the political landscape feels chaotic. God uses all things, even the actions of imperfect leaders, for His ultimate glory.

Submission is a word that often rubs us the wrong way, especially in the context of politics. Whether it's taxes, laws, or government mandates, many of us bristle at the idea of being told what to do. But the Christian life is marked by submission—not only to God but to the authorities He has placed over us.

In Romans 13:5, Paul urges, "So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment but also to keep a clear conscience." For believers, submission is not just a practical matter; it's a spiritual discipline. We submit because we trust that God is the ultimate authority, and He will hold both us and our leaders accountable.

But what about when the government is unjust? Is there ever a time when Christians should resist or disobey? Paul’s teaching doesn’t eliminate the need for civil disobedience when authorities command what God forbids. We see examples of this in Scripture, such as Daniel continuing to pray even when it was outlawed (Daniel 6), or the apostles in Acts boldly declaring, "We must obey God rather than men" (Acts 5:29). When obedience to human authorities contradicts obedience to God, we follow Christ first.

As Christians, we are not called to disengage from politics or social issues, but we must engage with humility, grace, and kindness. Romans 13 teaches that government exists for the good of society, and as believers, we should support policies and leaders that promote justice and righteousness. However, our engagement should never compromise our witness.

Too often, politics can become a battleground where kindness, civility, and respect are thrown aside. Yet, in Galatians 5:22-23, Paul reminds us that the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—should characterize our actions, even in politically charged environments. Does your political involvement reflect these fruits? Are you more concerned with winning arguments than winning people to Christ?
Social media, especially during election seasons, can become a platform for division.

As believers, we should be mindful of how we use our voices online and in person. Rather than contributing to the noise, we should use our words to build bridges, share hope, and point people to the true King, Jesus Christ.

One of the most profound reminders of Romans 13 is that, while we live in this world and engage with its systems, our primary citizenship is in heaven. Philippians 3:20 tells us, "But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ." This eternal perspective should shape how we engage politically. While governments rise and fall, God's Kingdom remains unshakable. This doesn't mean we ignore earthly concerns, but it does mean that we approach them with hope and peace, knowing that our future is secure in Christ.

This perspective also frees us from the pressure to place our hope in political outcomes. Whether our preferred candidate wins or loses, we can trust that God is in control, and His purposes will prevail. Our hope is not in a political party or leader, but in the King of kings, Jesus Christ.

As Christians, let’s challenge ourselves to approach this election season differently. Are your words, actions, and social media posts reflecting the fruits of the Spirit? How can you engage politically while maintaining a Christ-like attitude? Remember, we are called to be salt and light in this world, pointing people to the hope that is found in Jesus.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the privilege of living in this time and place. We acknowledge that all authority comes from You, and we submit ourselves to the leaders and systems You have put in place, trusting in Your sovereignty. Help us to engage in politics with kindness, humility, and wisdom, always reflecting Your love to the world around us. As we navigate this election season, may we find our peace and hope in Jesus, our true King. In His name, we pray. Amen.