Torch, Spring/Summer 2008

24 TORCH / Summer 2006 The believer in the political arena should maintain integrity in word and deed without being caught up in the problem of impossible promises and overstated claims. We should be known for facing difficult issues with an honest appraisal even if it is unpopular. We also have the responsibility to seek assistance for the needy and justice for those who are oppressed. The most difficult task for the believer is to follow the biblical requirement to “bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matthew 5:44). Solomon advised that one who follows God’s will should avoid angry retorts (Proverbs 14:29), lies (Proverbs 19:5, 9), talebearing (Proverbs 18:8), and speaking about things that have not been thoroughly examined (Proverbs 18:13). At the same time, we are to evidence a soft answer (Proverbs 15:1-2), words of wisdom (Proverbs 4:5), a just tongue (Proverbs 10:20), and a sparseness of words (Proverbs 17:27-28). The Christian in politics must also remember that government is required to keep order and to stand against those who would do wrong. When officials take the oath of office, promising to uphold the constitutions and laws of their jurisdictions, they become the enforcers of those ordinances. With 0 Top Left: Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama, D-Illinois, speaks in Raleigh, North Carolina, after winning the North Carolina Democratic presidential primary Tuesday, May 6, 2008. (AP Photo/Gerry Broome) Top Right: Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, D-New York, speaks at her Indiana Primary night rally Tuesday, May 6, 2008, in Indianapolis, as her husband, former President Bill Clinton, applauds. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings) Left: Republican presidential hopeful, Sen. John McCain, R-Arizona, campaigns during a town hall meeting Friday, May 2, 2008, in Denver, Colorado. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)