Post Election Thoughts 2008

By James Muffett, CTV President

"The probability that we may fail in the struggle ought not to deter us from the support of a cause we believe to be just."

- President Abraham Lincoln


Every candidate for which I voted lost Tuesday, except State Representative Rick Jones. In addition, both statewide Ballot Proposals passed in spite of my most fervent opposition. Even though I have been deeply engaged in the political process for over 20 years, I am so glad that my faith and hope are not in temporal things. I have been preaching that truth for years and my own words echo in my ears. After the election, a friend wrote,

"I am remembering your words to me when Clinton won for his first term. I said something to you like...’I am upset that Clinton won, are you?’ You said, ‘No, not at all, God is still in control of everything.’ And you were quite joyful."

I am very thankful for reminders like that!

A good meditation for all of us in this season is Romans 13, which outlines a Biblical view of civil government. We are told that "all authority comes from God," and that we should give honor and respect to the God-ordained authorities in civil government, no matter who holds those positions.

During previous elections, when my "views" were victorious, I always tried to keep in mind how dangerous it is to place too much hope or trust in my fellow "flawed" human beings or human systems. Psalm 118:8-9 says, "It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in man. It is better to take refuge in the LORD than to trust in princes."

Here’s a thought to consider: if you are happy OR upset about the results of the election, you are putting your hope in the wrong thing.

My constant drumbeat over the past few years has been to emphasize the importance of Responsible Christian Citizenship. We must not forget the importance of that principle now that the election is over. First, we must continue to be Responsible, which means that we cannot give up, quit or go home. We must be Christian, which means we must pray for our political leaders and maintain a posture of respect for those in authority over us - even if we disagree with their political ideology. And finally, we must maintain our obligation to good Citizenship, which includes a commitment to the greater common good, staying aware of the issues, standing up for the principles we believe in and speaking out when necessary.

Take time to rest, reflect and pray for the future of our state and nation. But remember that our commitment to be good stewards in the public arena does not end with an election. Please join me in continuing to be voices for traditional family values in the cultural conversation. Duty is ours, results are Gods!

Standing guard,

James Muffett
President, Citizens for Traditional Values
ctv@ctvmichigan.org