Politics is fun, right? Do they tire you? I’ve been burned out since 2012 when I worked that election. Politics invade every aspect of our lives. Work. Home. Church. Dealing with the feeling that everyone is out to get you. What do you do?
Peter Has The Answer
Dear friends, I urge you, as foreigners and exiles, to abstain from sinful desires, which wage war against your soul. Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.
1st Peter 2:11-12 NIV
We are no longer of this world. Now we are ambassadors representing God to this world. Our behavior should reflect that more and more, and not the desires of our human nature (Galatians 5:16-21). Jesus called us to be salt and light. Paul said to the Philippians that we should shine like stars.
Do you see stars at noon?
No, only when the light is gone and darkness surrounds them.
The Power of Reputation
The people around you know who you are. They know if you’re reliable, trustworthy, or care about them…or not.
You don’t get to pick your reputation. You can say you’re a nice guy all day long, but unless you behave like one, you’re deluding yourself.
Your reputation is based on behavior, not your words. To quote Rory Miller in ConCom, “A good reputation will give you some protection from honest mistakes. A bad reputation will undermine everything you do.”
How Do I Get This?
Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
1st Peter 3:13-16 NIV
Always do right, no matter the circumstances or consequences. Fear no man or institution, so long as you do the right thing. There are times you have to admit you messed up, and you’ll grow better from it.
Follow Jesus as your Lord, and when people see that you’re different, they’ll wonder and ask why. Then you can tell them about Jesus. Right always wins.
If they try to drag you through the dirt, it won’t work if you live a Teflon life. Nothing will stick no matter how hot it gets. 1 Peter 2:15 says it’s “God’s will that by doing good you should silence the ignorant talk of foolish men.”
Just do your job, live your life, carry on, and don’t sweat it.
A Ronin's Journey 