Political Enthusiast

I love the study of politics and politicians (my favorite politician is Vaclav Havel. My personal perspective is that 

(1) I bear responsibility as a citizen to participate in my culture’s prosperity for a productive future for all (read Jeremiah 29:1-7), 

 

(2) as a U.S. citizen I have been given the privilege of voting for what I have come to consider the best possible option for that future (Prov 29:4, 14), 

 

(3) I realize that I am often told what someone thinks through some media personality’s interpretive lens, seeking out the primary source instead (Prov 28:26), 

 

(4) I take a person’s words at face value, believing in their sincerity, while verifying their stated positions via past results (Prov 29:7-8), 

 

(5) even if the person I believe to be the best choice is elected, I know I will be disappointed in comments, choices, and policies along the way (multiple statements throughout Proverbs 28 -29),

 

(6) hate has no place in my view of any candidate, any group, or any person even if others display or say hateful things about my beliefs (Luke 6:27-29),

 

(7) ultimately, I do not put my future hope in the hands of human beings. Am I disappointed by outcomes of elections? Sure. The Scriptures are clear, however, that YHWH raises up leaders and sets them down again (Ps 75.7; Dan 2:21) and The Providences of God turn the king’s heart wherever YHWH pleases (Prov 21:1). 

 

[Just as a refresher if you’re new, my 2016 political statement has not changed.]

 

My political views are my own.

Dr. Mark Eckel is Executive Director of the Center for Biblical Integration at Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA