In this politically-charged time, Christians from both the Left and the Right are enthusiastically calling upon God to justify and strengthen their cause. But in which side of the political spectrum does God actually reside?
Paul was a bi-vocational minister, a tentmaker by trade, who used the proceeds from his business to help fund the spread of the Gospel. Paul also says in 2 Thes 3:10 that “If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.” Proverbs 13:4 instructs, “The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.”
These verses arguably support the soul of capitalism: a person’s individual efforts are expected and rewarded. However, let’s look at a few more scriptures. Lev 19:10 commands, “And you shall not strip your vineyard bare, neither shall you gather the fallen grapes of your vineyard. You shall leave them for the poor and for the sojourner: I am the Lord your God.” Add to this Pro 25:21, “If thine enemy be hungry, give him bread to eat; and if he be thirsty, give him water to drink.” And did not Jesus set the captives free, heal the sick, and feed the masses? Did he do so for profit or for free? Obviously a very liberal viewpoint.
Scores of scriptures support and deny both sides. But you get the picture. God is far above human political rants and squabbles, instead offering entry into his kingdom far above any earthly realm. Christians live on both sides of the political debate (the real debate is good vs. evil—a different discussion), but we are called to love God and to love one another. Christ even loved and forgave those who crucified Him for they knew not what they did. Maybe neither do those politicizing around us? You can pick a side, but definitely pick Jesus.
Lord, in these troubled times give us wisdom and understanding to believe and act according to Your Word and Your perfect will. Help us to see others with forgiving eyes the way you see them. Amen.