Peace in political conflict

In the next two weeks our nation will be experiencing the two major political conventions that will presumably set the stage for selecting our next president. This comes at a time when many are divided, hurting, confused, and frustrated.

How then should we approach this time period? Two verses in James, Chapter 5 will help direct us. Verse 13 says, “Are any of you suffering hardships? You should pray. Are any of you happy? You should sing praises.” Verse 16 says, “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other, so that you may be healed.”

Do we have hard times? Then pray. Happy? Then praise. This covers the situation from one end to the other. The key is to come before the Lord in prayer and praise. Can God make a difference in the deepest concerns about our nation? Yes, He does, as we pray and believe.

Philippians 4:4-7 says, “Always be full of joy in the Lord. Let everyone see that you are considerate in all that you do. Remember the Lord is coming soon. Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.”

Ken Lawrence is pastor at River of Life Fellowship in Sandpoint.