Scripture:
Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits... – Matthew 7:15-16a (ESV)
But test everything; hold fast to what is good. – 1 Thessalonians 5:21 (ESV)
Introduction:
We stand at a crossroads as Christians and citizens of this great nation. In about two weeks, we will cast our votes in an election that may determine whether we remain a Constitutional Republic or drift into the arms of Socialism. The stakes have never been higher, yet many believers fail to discern the truth behind the words they hear. Instead of testing what those in power say against their actions, they have fallen into the trap of trusting what sounds good without examining the fruit of their promises.
But the Word of God calls us to a higher standard—to test everything and hold fast to what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21). We are called to be wise as serpents, yet innocent as doves (Matthew 10:16). This is not the time for complacency, but for vigilance and discernment.
Illustration:
Consider the story of the Israelites in Joshua 9, when the Gibeonites came to deceive them. They wore old clothes, carried moldy bread, and spoke convincing words. They played the part of humble travelers seeking peace, and the Israelites, instead of seeking the Lord's counsel, believed their words. The result was a covenant that Israel should never have made, based on appearances and false promises. They acted without discernment, and the consequences were significant.
In the same way, we see leaders today promising peace, security, and prosperity. Their words are smooth, but when we look at their actions, we must ask: Do their actions match their words? Are they producing good fruit, or are they leading us down a path away from the principles this nation was founded on—Biblical principles of freedom, personal responsibility, and accountability?
Application:
As we approach this election, listening to speeches or watching debates is not enough. We must discern the truth through the lens of Scripture and seek God's wisdom in all things. Proverbs 2:6 says, *"For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding."* It is our responsibility to ask God for discernment and to test everything we hear.
1 John 4:1 reminds us: Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God. We need to do the same with the policies and promises we hear. Do they align with Biblical values or promote ideas that oppose God's Word, like dependency on government over individual freedom or moral relativism over absolute truth?
Current Event Parallel:
Look at the rise of socialist ideals in recent years—ideas that promote government control over personal freedom and place the state as the provider instead of the Lord.
We must ask, is this what God intended for His people? The Bible teaches stewardship, responsibility, and the freedom to work and provide (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Yet, many are being misled into believing that a system of dependency and government control is the solution. As believers, we must recognize the Spiritual danger here.
Scripture repeatedly shows us that deception is subtle. Satan masquerades as an angel of light (2 Corinthians 11:14). We cannot afford to be naïve.
God's View and Hope:
The good news is that God is still sovereign. He works in ways we may not always see, but He invites us to participate in His plans. We must be watchmen on the wall, warning others with grace and truth. Ezekiel 33:6 tells us that the blood is on his hands if the watchman fails to sound the alarm. But if he warns the people and they do not listen, then he is free of guilt.
As Christians, we are not without hope. If we humble ourselves and pray, seek His face, and turn from wicked ways, God promises to heal our land (2 Chronicles 7:14). We must engage, pray, and vote according to the values of God's kingdom.
Closing Prayer:
Lord, we ask for wisdom and discernment as we approach this election. Open our eyes to see through deception, and give us the courage to stand for truth, even when it is unpopular. Please help us to be both graceful and uncompromising in our witness. We trust in Your sovereignty and believe that Your plans will prevail. May Your will be done in our nation. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Call to Action:
Let us not be passive in these crucial times. As we approach the voting booth, let us examine what is said and done. Let us be people of prayer, testing everything and holding fast to what is good. Above all, let us trust that God is at work, even in these times of uncertainty.
Trust but verify---Ronald Regan, adapted from The Word of God.
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