I admit it.  I was getting cranky and frustrated—and maybe even a little bit angry—during this very strange presidential election.  The lies, the filth, the innuendos, and the name-calling by the candidates were deeply disturbing to me.  And the angry posts from believers (and friends) on Facebook were getting to me.  I was ready to post a few angry responses and statements on social media of my own, against my better judgment.

Instead, I did what I challenge everyone to do when we’re growing angry and frustrated.

I prayed.

And as often happens after I stop-and-pray, God changed my thinking and reminded me of some very important perspectives for believers:

The political world is getting mean and ugly and downright dirty; we can’t afford to sink to that level.

Some voters are zealous evangelists for their candidate; we must be zealous for Jesus.

Some voters are discouraged and disgusted; we have hope in the gospel of Christ.

Some issues are dividing the generations; Jesus bridges the gap between young-and-old.

Some issues are dividing black-from-white; Jesus unites different colors and cultures.

Relationships and friendships are being broken; Christians can stand together even during disagreement.

Politicians and voters often hate their opponents; we must love our enemies.

Politicians are spreading lies; we must tell the truth.

Politicians live in a world of innuendos, putdowns, one-liners, and trash talk; we must be kind.

Politicians are spreading dirt and filth; we must spread love.

Politicians claim they can bring peace through strength or negotiation; we know there will never be peace until we find it in Jesus.

Politicians declare that their opponent is flawed and sinful; we agree because it’s true for all of us.

Candidates declare that they can fix what ails our country; we know we can accomplish far more on our knees than any president can from the oval office.

Politicians claim that this is the most important election in history; God choosing me (and you) is far more important.

Political parties claim disaster if their opponent wins; no matter who wins God will still be God and His work will still remain.

I will, of course, still vote.  And I will still have strong opinions, most of which I will not share publicly, because I have better things to talk about.  But I will refuse to be consumed by the world of politics.  If anything consumes me, I want it to be my love for God, my love for all people, and my desire to follow Jesus and do His work.