My Faith and Political Debate – Psalm 37

The rise of political noise in the media keeps bringing Psalm 37 to mind, where it says getting all worked up about things is bound to bring trouble. The word fret is defined as becoming anxious, agitated, worried, or annoyed. The Bible says we should stop going there.

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“Cease from anger and forsake wrath; fret not yourself–it tends only to evildoing. For evildoers shall be cut off, but those who wait and hope and look for the Lord [in the end] shall inherit the land” (Psalm 37:8-9 AMPC).

It does not say that those who win the argument or get the most votes inherit the earth, it says those who wait, hope, and look for him will.

Other verses in the psalm make it clear the righteous person does not neglect to show mercy, be gracious, and do good. Maybe this is how to put a stop to the discord.

“I have been young and now am old, yet I have not seen the [uncompromisingly] righteous forsaken or their seed begging bread. All day long they are merciful and deal graciously; they lend, and their offspring are blessed.  Depart from evil and do good; and you will dwell forever [securely]” (verses 25-27).

What I do not see in this chapter is any reference to political discussion or debate. I do see the benefit of keeping trust in God foremost in my mind, and doing what he wants me to do throughout the day.

“For the Lord delights in justice and forsakes not his saints. They are preserved forever, but the offspring of the wicket [in time] shall be cut off” (verse 28).

by Kathy Sheldon Davis

By Kathy Sheldon Davis

Kathy Sheldon Davis, contributing author of the books "Jesus Talked to Me Today" and "Seeking His Presence," and a finalist for the Oregon Christian Writers Cascade award, lives with her husband, Jerry, in Junction City, Oregon. Kathy enjoys mentoring and editing for other writers, making strangers into friends, and celebrating holidays with her extended family. She has also written for Warner Press since 2016 and posts devotions on her blog at kathysheldondavis.com .

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