A friend recently pointed out a passage of scripture to me that she found comforting with regard to the fears that some people have about the end times, judgment and the things coming upon the earth. As someone who is engaged in political activism, I found the passage particularly relevant as I so often hear Christians expressing fear of their political adversaries, expectations of judgment on the land and general dread for what appears to be coming upon the nation. Many are so fearful that they are willing to compromise values, principles and sound policies in order to “win” at the polls. I have long contended that I would rather be found honoring God, upholding an uncompromisingly right standard and trusting Him to honor and care for me. I think this passage makes my case particularly well, especially in the Message translation.

“Then those whose lives honored GOD got together and talked it over. GOD saw what they were doing and listened in. A book was opened in God’s presence and minutes were taken of the meeting, with the names of the GOD-fearers written down, all the names of those who honored GOD’s name. GOD-of-the-Angel-Armies said, “They’re mine, all mine. They’ll get special treatment when I go into action. I treat them with the same consideration and kindness that parents give the child who honors them. Once more you’ll see the difference it makes between being a person who does the right thing and one who doesn’t, between serving God and not serving him.” (Malachi 3:16-18 MSG)

This passage is talking about a time when many of God’s covenant people – Israel – were not fully honoring, trusting and obeying Him. Yet God was paying attention and took special note of the remnant among His people who did truly honor Him and did not compromise His right standards.

I implore my fellow believers to remember this the next time you’re confronted with a ballot featuring a godless candidate, a compromised candidate and an overtly God-honoring, Constitution-upholding candidate whom, you’re told, “can’t win,” leaving you convinced you must “vote for the guy who can beat the evil candidate.” Do not be fooled. We are in a time of great deception! Instead, take note of the favor that God shows to those who honor Him, then determine to be numbered among them!