How to survive politics as a christian woman
life,  politics

How to Survive Politics as a Christian Woman

One Hot Mess

Last week for one of my classes, I underwent a media deprivation experiment. The goal was no TV, Internet, or news media (except for what was necessary), for four days. When the experiment was over, I realized something profound about today’s American culture.

We are a hot mess politically, and it’s driving us crazy.

It seems that in modern day society, if you’re not following the crowd on certain political stances or ideologies, then there’s something wrong with you. Just look at the Golden Globes and the Grammy Awards from this year. Everyone’s making a statement–to the point where it’s no longer about movies or music at all.

Now I’m not writing this to tell you what to believe, lovely reader. You can decide for yourself. And I’m certainly not suggesting that we stay silent on important political issues. On the contrary, Christians should be outspoken on issues such as abortion, sexual assault, and racism.

So how can Christian women find balance in this secular political climate? Here are 3 points to consider.

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Find the “Why” 

Everyone believes in something. And as Christian women, we believe that Jesus Christ is God and has died for our sins to save us from hell. He came as a man to usher in the greatest rescue mission the world has ever seen, so we can have eternal life with Him!

This should be our core foundation when we ask ourselves why we stand for a certain political party or ideology.

I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were either one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth. (Revelation 3:15-16 NIV)

There are a lot of people who are “rebelling” against traditional values…to the point where they are becoming conformists! Most people are lukewarm about their beliefs because they are afraid of stirring the pot. But that’s not how Christians should be. It’s one thing to think critically on certain issues, however, our values must always be clear.

Another reason to know the why behind your beliefs is so that you can defend them.  If I say I’m pro-life but do not have any reason for it, then no one will care. Our why should be spiritual, as well as logical. Our beliefs about this world should reflect our belief in the hope of Jesus Christ.

Our beliefs should reflect the hope of Christ.

Be Kind

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15 NIV)

Although we must understand the reason for our beliefs and be able to defend them, we must do so with kindness. This world is full of division and hatred, even among Christians. However, we are called to gentleness and maturity in our conduct.

We must realize that no political party or ideology is perfect. We are human beings, so we tend to mess things up…a lot. Whether you are a Republican or Democrat, or something in between, please don’t fall into political idolatry.

It isn’t wise to enter a conversation with people of different political beliefs to try to change their minds (it doesn’t work anyway). Seek to understand them and their background. Ask God to help you empathize with them as you politely state your views. This will glorify God.

Seek Godly Wisdom

The Internet and cable news is filled to the brim with information trying to sway our beliefs. How on earth do we make a wise decision?

 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. (James 1:5 NIV)

What an amazing gift! I think we tend to forget that God is our Father, and that we can climb into His lap and ask for His love and wisdom. Don’t put God into a box. He will guide you in all areas of life, including political beliefs.

One of the best ways to find wisdom is by reading the Bible. Scripture is full of wisdom on how to live a Godly life. Don’t know where to start? Try the book of Proverbs. Even if you read one chapter a day, in just a month you will gain a lot of Godly wisdom.

This world is full of ideas and beliefs–many of which are totally against God. Although we might not be able to disconnect from all media and news, we can find balance in politics. A woman of faith must walk in values, kindness, and Godly wisdom. If you strive for this, then you will not only survive politics, you’ll thrive.


Thanks for reading! Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below 🙂

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8 Comments

  • Courtney

    Excellent thoughts, Emily! It is so true that our political climate is a mess right now. I can’t even go on Twitter without seeing some crazy news headline or controversial issue. I also love how you said that we should know what we believe and our ‘why’ should be “spiritual as well as logical”. It is so important to know why we have the beliefs and views that we do so we can have a solidified worldview.

    Furthermore, I love how you urged people to be kind and stated that no political ideology is perfect. Too often, Christians side hard-core with one side or the other and become blinded to the flaws of the party, defending things and behaviors they really shouldn’t standing by.

    This is a much needed post and I thought you did a great job! Keep up the awesome writing!😃

    • fearfullywonderfullyme

      Thanks so much Courtney! I’m so glad you loved this post. I really appreciate your balanced view on things 🙂

  • lovejoybalance

    Amen and Amen!! We cannot conform, the Word doesn’t change and we shouldn’t try to change it. We should definitely grow in Godly wisdom, not worldly concepts. Be kinder than necessary – absolutely! My preacher says that we shouldn’t get so ‘offended’ if the worldly people act like the world but we should be the hope that they want to see a that could lead them to Christ! Good post!

    • fearfullywonderfullyme

      Thank you for sharing! It’s so true that Jesus was even the rock of offense…yet He walked in love. We must stay true to the Word of God no matter what happens in culture/politics. Be blessed!

  • Ashleigh Rich

    I really like these thoughts, especially as I was fuming last night about a politically charged Facebook post from a friend. You’re right, we need to know our whys for what we believe and those whys need to be based on biblical principals. I think it okay for us to disagree to what we think the solutions to problems are, but we should do so kindly and with great respect. There’s not much of that going around in politics these days. There definitely aren’t enough of us that are looking to the Bible and the Holy Spirit to help give us wisdom in today’s political climate (and I’m one of those that could do better on that front). Thanks for your thoughts on this. I needed to hear this today.

    • fearfullywonderfullyme

      Thank you for sharing Ashleigh! I know how hard it can be to not get mad at someone’s opinion. 😅 That’s part of being human. But you’re right, we do need to walk in respect and kindness. That is how Jesus would walk. I’m glad I could help point you to God’s wisdom!

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