THE TEN COMMANDMENTS OF CIVILITY FOR A POLITICALLY-CHARGED AGE

Commandment #1: Thou shalt pray for those in government.

“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior….” (1Timothy 2:1-3)

What pleases God? Beseeching him on behalf of whomever is in charge.

#2: Thou shalt obey those in government.

“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.” (Titus 3:1-2)

When we act contrary to protestors and politicos, we are living examples of the Savior who died for us.

#3: Thou shalt understand God chose our government.

“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” (Romans 13:1)

A great source of peace can come from knowing that God, by His sovereign purpose, elected those officials with whom you may disagree. (Ha! And YOU thought you elected them.)
#4: Thou shalt promote harmony with your political opposites.

“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18)

After the election, should mayhem and division continue, be a peacemaker.

#5: Thou shalt not speak negatively.

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” (Ephesians 4:29)

Avoid snarkiness and sarcasm, especially in your postings to Social Media. Instead, publish cute cat pics.

#6: Thou shalt not disagree disagreeably.

“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” (Colossians 4:6)

If you must engage in political discussions, remember that you are representing Jesus Christ.

#7: Thou shalt not be prideful.

“In humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” (Philippians 2:3)

Be a sponge, learn to listen, ask questions and bless those who think and vote differently.

#8: Thou shalt do good stuff.

“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16)

Buy your political “enemy” a Dairy Queen cone. Rock their categories.

#9: Thou shalt try to avoid political disputations all together.

“Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.” (2 Timothy 2:23)

In the big picture, most people don’t really care what you say. Do you really think that you will change their mind?

#10: Thou shalt shut-up.

“Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent….” (Proverbs 17:28)
Want to be the wisest pundit on the block? Zip it.

Abraham Lincoln said, “Do I not destroy my enemies when I make them my friends?”
Community Church of the Hills had a Plan of Salvation Trunk or Treat at the Johnson City Court House Square on Saturday with every car’s color delivering the appropriate Scripture (see last image). President Trump approved this message.
What if, after the election, Christianity is made illegal? What if our entire country loses the freedoms we’ve enjoyed for almost 250 years? What if our country as we know it simply goes away? Will you still stand as a believer in Jesus? This is my disturbing political sermon from last Sunday.
MEMES FOR YOU!
Father, we give thanks for the United States and its government. We hold up in prayer before You the men and women who are in positions of authority. We pray and intercede for the president, the representatives, the senators, the judges of our land, the policemen and the policewomen, as well as the governors and mayors, and for all those who are in authority over us in any way. We pray that the Spirit of the Lord rests upon them.


We believe that skillful and godly wisdom has entered into the heart of our president and knowledge is pleasant to him. Discretion watches over him; understanding keeps him and delivers him from the way of evil and from evil men.


We ask that You surround President Trump with men and women who make their hearts and ears attentive to godly counsel and do that which is right in Your sight. Heal President Trump and Melania from Covid.


We believe You cause our leaders to be men and women of integrity who are obedient concerning us that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. We pray that the upright shall dwell in our government—that men and women blameless and complete in Your sight, Father, shall remain in these positions of authority, but the wicked shall be cut off from our government and the treacherous shall be rooted out of it.


Your Word declares that “blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.” We receive Your blessing. Father; You are our Refuge and Stronghold in times of trouble. So we declare with our mouths that Your people dwell safely in this land, and we prosper abundantly. We are more than conquerors through Christ Jesus!


It is written in Your Word that the heart of the king is in the hand of the Lord and that You turn it whichever way You desire. We believe the heart of our leader is in Your hand and that his decisions are divinely directed of the Lord.


We give thanks to You that the good news of the Gospel is published in our land, that the the Word of the Lord prevails and grows mightily in the hearts and lives of the people. We give thanks for this land and the leaders You have given to us, in Jesus’ name. –From “Prayers That Avail Much” by Germaine Copeland
MISS AN ISSUE? Click here to catch up on past newsletters!