I have started this post at least twenty different times this morning. On my Facebook feed I have read SO many political posts from friends on both the right and left side of politics. But this post is for my friends who are also my Christian family. My heart aches that I am seeing memes and comments that are extremely bitter against people who do not hold the same beliefs and values you do. My heart aches when I see Christians who hold Donald Trump up as America’s Savior.  We Christians have one Savior and one Lord–Jesus Christ. I frequently wonder why we are not promoting Jesus Christ and who he is, above politics.

I cannot help but think that the King of Kings and Lord of Lords is saddened to see where many of his followers are today. Instead of being loving and kind, we are divisive and judgmental. Instead of praying for ALL of our leaders and elected officials, we are picking and choosing who we are praying for. Hate/love Nancy Pelosi? Pray for her daily. Hate/love Donald Trump? Pray for him daily. Love Jesus? Then act like it and develop fruit of the spirit in your life.

Galatians 5:19-26 reads: “What human nature does is quite plain. It shows itself in immoral, filthy, and indecent actions; in worship of idols and witchcraft. People become enemies and they fight; they become jealous, angry, and ambitious. They separate into parties and groups; they are envious, get drunk, have orgies, and do other things like these. I warn you now as I have before: those who do these things will not possess the Kingdom of God.

But the Spirit produces love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility, and self-control. There is no law against such things as these. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have put to death their human nature with all its passions and desires. The Spirit has given us life; he must also control our lives. We must not be proud or irritate one another or be jealous of one another.” Paul goes on to say “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”

If we choose to do good only to those who we agree with, what kind of people are we? The world is watching us. Are we going to continue showing the world a divisive, contentious body of believers? Or are we going to set politics aside and focus on being Christ-like believers? These are the things we need to be focusing on–love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, humility, and self-control.

Dear Christian brothers and sisters, the next time you post on Facebook, think carefully about who and what you are promoting. Kindness or hatred? Unity or division? Humility or pride? Christ or your idols? It is your choice. Choose wisely.