Election Discussion Etiquette

Our family has been conducting an email discussion about the presidential election. While I really haven't participated, I have enjoyed reading. I don't participate because I don't talk so good. I have opinions, I have done some research and I have made my decision, but I don't articulate my opinions very well. I talk to preschoolers all day long - I haven't had much practice. I am thankful that our family is well informed and for the most part kind and considerate in their thoughts and comments.

Politics is such a heated topic. It is an area in our lives where we are very passionate about our opinions. It really make me wish we were as passionate about our Jesus. Would we wear buttons, put up yard signs, blog, and send out millions of post cards? This is a life and death decision! I am not that passionate. I wish I were bolder with what I share. Any thoughts on translating some of our political passion into passion for the lost?

At our Bible study, we have the ten commandments of politics. Basically, they state that each of us has opinions and that at bible study we are here to discuss God and study the Bible, not the political process. The famous phrase says that there are two things you should never discuss with friends and family, God and politics. To me that is avoidance. We should be discussing things like that with people. However, there should be rules - etiquette rules. So here are my rules/suggestions whatever you want to call them.

1. Remember God love all of us - not matter who we are voting for. So your friend that is constantly talking about the candidate that you aren't voting for is loved by God equally.
2. Be loving in your speech, attitude, and behavior.
3. Pray - for the elections, for our leaders, and for your mouth! :-)
4. No matter who is elected, be respectful. 1 Peter 2:13-17 - look it up!
5. Remember that God is God and He rules the universe, not the President of the United States.
6. VOTE! Be thankful for the freedom we have. Make a big deal about that.
7. Don't liter your yard with political signs. No matter who you are voting for - it's ugly! And it is exclusive. What if one of your neighbors decided they weren't going to talk to you because of who you were going to vote for. Dumb reason on their part, but it might happen. You just lost an opportunity to talk about Jesus with them. He is more important that the President or councilmen or county clerk (why do we vote for the county clerk???)

Titus 3:1-2 says, "Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people."

Ephesians 4:29, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."