Sisterhood in Action: Uplifting through the 2024 Election

Morgan Farr, a "military wife," cares deeply about America. She is also a Christ-follower who teaches women how to think biblically. In this Elections UPGRADE—now that the important 2023 elections are over—Morgan looks ahead to what may prove to be a profoundly crucial year gearing up to the 2024 elections.

“What if," she asks, "we used SISTERHOOD to help our community through the 2024 Presidential election?”

I (Dawn) think Morgan’s suggestions for making a difference in local communities are a wonderful idea!

Morgan continues . . .

We are called to be salt and light in the world, and one of the most impactful ways we can do this is by actively participating in the political process. The 2024 presidential election presents a unique opportunity to unite, support one another, and make a difference in our nation.

How we can uplift one another through this election, grounded in the wisdom of Romans 12:10?

Paul says,

Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor (ESV).

S-I-S-T-E-R-H-O-O-D in Action!

S — SUPPLICATE for Personal Guidance

Before diving into the practical aspects of getting involved in the election, start with prayer.

• Seek God's guidance for unity among Christian women, regardless of political differences.
• Pray for wisdom and discernment as you navigate the complexities of the election process.

Remember that Romans 12:10 encourages us to love one another with brotherly affection, even when our political views differ.

I — INFORM Yourselves.

Empower yourselves and your sisters in Christ with knowledge about the candidates and issues at stake.

• Host informational sessions or invite guest speakers to provide insights into the candidates' positions and the potential impact of their policies.
• Encourage fact-checking and discernment to make informed decisions.

S —SUPPORT Voter Registration.

Help one another register to vote. It's a practical way to uplift Christian women.

• Organize voter registration drives within your church or community. 
• Ensure that everyone eligible has the opportunity to participate in the electoral process.

This aligns with the biblical principle of stewardship, as we are called to be responsible citizens in Romans 13:1.

T — TALK with Each Other.

One way to uplift one another during the election is to engage in civil discourse.

• While differences of opinion are natural, approach conversations with respect and humility.
• Listen actively to the perspectives of your sisters in Christ and share your views thoughtfully.
• Use your discussions as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Keep in mind Proverbs 15:1:

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (NIV).

E — ENCOURAGE Voting on Voting Day.

Motivate your Christian sisters to exercise their right to vote.

• Share the significance of voting in a democracy and its impact on our nation's direction.
• Remember that voting is not just a civic duty but also an opportunity to be good stewards of the influence God has given us.

R — REACH OUT to Your Community. 

• Consider volunteering your time and skills for a campaign or an initiative that aligns with your values.
• Whether it's canvassing, phone banking, or offering marketing or event planning expertise, your contribution can make a significant difference.

Galatians 6:9 reminds us of the importance of not growing “weary in doing good.”

H — HOST with Puposeful Hospitality.

Christian hospitality can heighten participation during the election year.

• Create a safe and supportive community for Christian women during the election season.
• Offer encouragement and a listening ear to those who may find the process overwhelming or stressful.
• Get creative!

Acts 4:32a reminds us of the power of unity:

All the believers were one in heart and mind (NIV).

O — ORGANIZE Prayer Gatherings.

Prayer is a powerful tool in any election.

• Organize prayer gatherings within your church or community.
• Pray for:  the election process, the candidates, and the nation.
• Believe that unity in prayer—praying together and counting on God's presence—can bring about positive change!

This is emphasized in Matthew 18:20:

For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them (NIV).

O — OPERATE with Understanding. 

Amid passionate discussions and differing viewpoints, remember the importance of grace and forgiveness. 

• Extend godly grace to your sisters, especially when disagreements arise.
• Practice biblical forgiveness when disagreements go too far.
  

Ephesians 4:32 encourages us to:

“be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you” (NIV).

D — DEMONSTRATE Christlikeness. 

Ultimately, as Christian women, we should do all to the glory of God — with Christlike choices and responses.

• Our vote should align with our values and principles—rooted in faith.
• In Christlike humility, seek guidance from Scripture, prayer, and the counsel of fellow believers as you make your voting decisions. 
• Trust that your choices reflect your commitment to love, justice, and righteousness.

The 2024 presidential election allows Christian women to uplift one another through unity, knowledge, and active participation. Grounded in love, respect, and stewardship principles, we can positively impact our nation and be a shining example of Christ's love in a politically-charged world.

Again, as we navigate the election season, may we remember:

Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor.

Let's let Romans 12:10 guide our actions and interactions.

Which of these “S-I-S-T-E-R-H-O-O-D” suggestions could you prepare to participate in during the upcoming election season? Can you think of a special sister in Christ who might join you to make a difference in your community?

Morgan Farr is a succulent-cultivating book nerd and aspiring author. She spends her days homeschooling her four young children and training her working dogs. As an Army wife, Morgan has learned to lean heavily on Jesus as she walks out military life. She is the Director of Publishing at Planting Roots, a ministry for military women and wives. You can connect with Morgan on all major social media channels using her handle: morgandfarr.

Being a Light in a Dark Election

Morgan Farr is a woman of faith with courage to speak up for the Word of God. In this special, insightful  Election UPGRADE, she encourages biblical responses and behavior before, during and even after the upcoming election.

“I have a confession to make,” Morgan says. “I am a bit of a current events junkie. You wouldn’t know it to look at me, but I love politics, civics, and the law.”

I (Dawn) am too! And I have found Morgan to be a woman of faith with strong opinions—and those opinions are rooted in powerful, positive principles of truth from scripture.

Morgan continues . . . 

I strongly believe healthy discourse and debate about these topics—politics, civics and the law—is a crucial aspect of being a good citizen.

In the craziness that is 2020, I have had to take a break from engaging in debates and discussion about politics and, in some cases, even following current events, because I just cannot take the hateful darkness on all sides of the political spectrum. 

The amount of name calling—even from mature Christians—in this election cycle has been appalling. Hateful memes and comics are frequently shared by people claiming Christ’s name.

People are railing against political parties and ideas while forgetting that the people that they are talking about are made in the image of God—just like us.  

So, I am going to share with you how to be a light for Christ before, during, and after the 2020 Presidential Election. 

BEFORE the Election

1. Do Your Research: 

Learn as much as you can about each candidate so that you can make an informed choice.

A small caveat here. Keep in mind that the presidential election is ONE of the elections happening on November 3rd. There are 470 seats in Congress up for election this go around. That is 35 Senate seats and 435 House seats. Be educated and prepared! 

2. Be Wise:

• Share what you learn about the political candidates in a way that honors God. Check and double check your facts before you post anything about another person, political or otherwise.
• Remember that each of the candidates are human beings made in the image of God, treat their names that way.
• Share positive articles and posts about the candidate that you decided on rather than posting all the negative things about the other candidate. Do not engage in the mudslinging nonsense. 

This is where people often say, “But Morgan, the other side is bashing our candidate, so we have to tell what their candidate is doing wrong!”

To which I say, “Nonsense!”  

Proverbs 12:16 says,

Fools have short fuses and explode all too quickly; the prudent quietly shrug off insults.

Let them say whatever they are going to say.

You are not going to change anyone's mind on social media by arguing or posting ugly comments or sarcastic memes. No one is won over that way, and all it does is make you (and the church body) look foolish. 

DURING the Election

1. Do Your Part

Titus 3:1-2 says,

Remind the people to respect the government and be law-abiding, always ready to lend a helping hand. No insults, no fights. God’s people should be bighearted and courteous.

Get out there and be helpful! 

These are a few simple things that you can do to help on or near Election Day regardless of who you are voting for:

1. Help get other people registered to vote ahead of time.
2. Volunteer to be a poll worker. 
3. Bring supplies (water and snacks) to people in polling stations.
4. Find out if anyone in your church or community needs help getting to the polls on November 3rd.

Examples of that fourth point:

• Help the elderly, who may not be able to drive.
• Help mothers of small children—babysit so the children don’t have to stand in line at the polls.
• Help first-time voters who may be intimidated by the process. 

2. Vote Well

Do not just vote for the person with the most advertisements or the person that your pastor, dad, spouse, or employer told you to vote for.

Vote according to your conscience after careful prayer and study. 

AFTER the Election

If Your Candidate Won: 

That is great news! Handle it like a good sport.

Use your heads as you live and work among outsiders. Don’t miss a trick. Make the most of every opportunity. Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out (Colossians 4:5-6).

Do not alienate people with boasting or trash talking after the election. All that does is cause strife.

Instead focus on bringing out the best in the people around you since that is where you will have the greatest impact. 

If Your Candidate Lost: 

I am sorry for your disappointment. Handle it like a good sport.

Be a good citizen. All governments are under God. Insofar as there is peace and order, it’s God’s order. So, live responsibly as a citizen. If you’re irresponsible to the state, then you’re irresponsible with God, and God will hold you responsible. Duly constituted authorities are only a threat if you’re trying to get by with something. Decent citizens should have nothing to fear (Romans 13:1-3).

Do not then allow that setback to impact your testimony as a Christian by behaving in a manner that would blemish the reputation of Christ.

Whoever gets elected is not a surprise to God.

God is in complete control even if we do not like the outcome.

Finally, let me remind you that the leaders of the country are hundreds or thousands of miles away from most of us.  Do not allow political affiliation to determine how you treat the people in your community. 

If someone votes for Trump, respect their choice. 

If someone votes for Biden, respect their choice. 

Ultimately our allegiance is not to the Democrat Party or Republican Party, or even to the United States. Rather, our allegiance is to Jesus Christ and His ultimate authority as the Son of God. 

What can you do to bring light to the election process for 2020?

Morgan Farr is a Texas-loving, succulent-cultivating, book nerd. Stationed in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this Army wife is learning to love her husband, developing her four children, and tackle the homeschool life while moving all over the country. Morgan writes about her transition away from feminism and into biblical womanhood at The Forgiven Former Feminist.

Graphic adapted, courtesy of Hannah Edgman.

Choosing Leaders, Casting Votes & Raising Voices

In this Election UPGRADE, Julie Sanders encourages us to consider godly wisdom when we vote this year.

"Elections raise a lot of questions and stir up even more emotions," Julie says. "Scan social media or listen in to nearby conversation during Election Season, and you’re likely to hear conflict."

I (Dawn) do hear it, and I'm weary of all the name-calling and lies. But Christians can't pull away from the election process. We need to make our votes count.

Julie continues . . .

Casting our vote has become a tense business. To choose wise leaders in hard times, we need truth.

The voter’s guide arrived a month ago. Descriptions of experience, opinions, alliances, and promises filled the pages to help make decisions about who to follow.

People have had to “choose this day whom you will serve” (Joshua 24:15) since the Garden, but when it comes to elections, one thing is sure. 

We will vote for a flawed human being. 

1. Choosing my Leaders

Passion, rhetoric, or vision may cause us to cast our vote for a candidate.

Since no one is righteous, “no not one,” (Romans 3:10) every leader will let us down. It’s human habit to look for someone to see, hear, and touch (to physically follow); but every human leader will someday be a let down in some way.

If you’re looking for a leader who won’t let you down, look up.

Only Jesus is worthy of our total commitment and confidence. When we look to a man or woman to be what only Jesus can be, we’re on a collision course with disappointment. We won’t find flawless leaders to follow.

Eventually, a leader will stand up or sit down at the wrong time. A world hinging on human performance is a world in conflict.

Human leaders are flawed leaders. Our heavenly Leader is the faithful leader.  Though we cast a vote in our community, our trust remains in Christ alone.

2. Casting my Vote

While a follower of Christ knows her citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20), she can prayerfully approach the chance to influence her government with her vote.

After reading the voter’s guide where I live, I am more prepared for God to direct my vote to work out His plan. Nations and governments use varied ways to identify leaders; voting isn’t a Biblical mandate. God allows leaders to rise or fall (Romans 13:1).

In every people group, God lets leaders lead.

Our vote results from who we are.

When our identity is in Christ, the process or results of an election shouldn’t overturn the Holy Spirit as the “incumbent” resident in our heart and mind; He has no term limit and cannot be impeached.

Jesus should never share the throne of our allegiance with earthly issues and candidates.

Whatever the conversation stirred by election coverage, when I am in Christ, I am His follower alone.

3. Raising my Voice

A Christ-like vote should have a Christ-like voice.

Followers of Christ cast their votes and raise their voices as representatives of the Light of the World. Too often, it’s not that way.

“From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.  Does a spring pour forth from the same opening both fresh and salt water?” (James 3:10-11)

Inflammatory language and emotion have poured out from those who don’t claim to follow Christ and those who do. Too often, words have sounded the same. Angry. Attacking. Untruthful. Proud. When we have the privilege of a vote and voice to shape government and life, a Christ-like vote should have a Christ-like voice.

“Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom ... But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.  And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace" (James 3:13, 17-18).

Every human leader will let us down. 

Only Jesus deserves to be followed with our whole heart, to have our identity tied to His.

Whatever the outcome of Election Day, God is in control, listening for sweet words and attitudes to pour from a heart filled with His Spirit.

Our vote matters and our voice matters, no matter who sits on earthly thrones.

May our Christ-like votes be heard in our Christ-like voices.

Questions to consider:

• How could I include government and leaders in my prayer life?
• What are those around me on social media and in person hearing me say about leaders?
• What kind of conversations am I listening to?
• How does my voice and my vote reflect my identity?  

Julie Sanders grew up near the Nation’s Capitol, with a front row seat to watch and learn from elected leaders. She has served with her husband on ministry teams around the world, in nations without the privilege of a vote. Now they call the Northwest home, where she is the director of early learning programs across urban and rural regions. Julie writes from her online home, “Come Have a Peace.”

Graphic adapted, courtesy of maialisa at Pixabay.