Christians Are Called To A Higher Standard

For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness,” “You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Romans 13:9 – NKJV)

Before my new birth in Christ in 1993, I had thought I was a “good” person, but in my heart I knew I was hell bound due to my sins, even though I had everything a woman could want: a wonderful husband, two beautiful children, a lovely home and many of the finer things of life. But I was still miserable because I knew I was not serving God and even though I was trying to make myself into a “good” person, it just wasn’t working!

Over a period of several years, the LORD brought me to the end of myself and in desperation I reached out to Him and He was there. He then led me to repent (turn away) from my sins and rely upon His completed work on the Cross (Christ’s sacrifice and atonement for His people’s sins).

In His strength and power I gave up my old life and began a new life in Christ.

The LORD soon had me involved with local Christian activists as a member of the Illinois Christian Coalition (1994) and then as a county chapter leader in 1995 (the same year I was elected to the Waterloo School Board).

After seeing the shallowness of the Republican Party, I joined the Constitution Party of Illinois in 2001 and served as an officer until my resignation (January 2005) due to their compromise of not upholding their 100% pro-life, no exception “Sanctity of Life” plank in their Party platform.

As a Christian I have been politically active with either running as a candidate or serving in some sort of leadership role with the goal of being a good witness for Christ. I truly believe Christians are called to a higher standard and it grieves me to see them acting like the world, especially in politics.

Many a professing Christian has brought shame upon the name of Christ by making unholy alliances and using dishonest means to get what they want – a “seat at the table” in government. The world is then quick to mock and ridicule those Christians who fall or backslide. In the process another blow is placed upon our Saviors’ reputation.

Most recently I have been perplexed over Christians who slander candidates with gossip, name-calling, and innuendo. Friends, this ought not to be. Don’t you know that we are not of the world? This does not mean we hide others sins or overlook wrongdoing, but it does mean we treat people with respect because they are made in the image of God.

In closing, I want to encourage Christians to be involved with all spheres of our culture – including political; but please remember that you are Christ’s ambassador. Present the truth in all boldness, but for the LORD’s sake, please temper your actions with kindness, humility and love.

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