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My 2020 Election Pledge of Peace

Politicians make promises.  I think it’s time for the rest of us make some election promises too.  Here is what I pledge about my own actions before elections, when I vote, and in whatever happens after that.  I’m going to start today, even while much chatter about the first debate fills the air.  I invite you to take the pledge with me.

My 2020 Election Pledge of Peace

I will put this in God’s hands and trust that none of this is beyond His knowledge, power, and ability to make all things work together for the good of those who love Him.

I will listen to the concerned people in my life so I can understand and know them better.  I will express care and love toward them, even if we disagree on politics.

I will be peaceful in words and actions before, during, and after the election.  I will pray for those who are so angry or so afraid that they choose behaviors harmful to themselves or to others.

I will speak respectfully ABOUT people who vote differently than I vote.  I will speak respectfully WITH people who vote differently than I vote.

When people disagree with me, even sharply, I will be slow to label it as “hate,” since many emotional reactions come not from hate but from fear. If I am unfairly labeled as being hateful, I will quietly and consistently prove them wrong with kind words and actions, even if they don’t notice or care.  

I will pray that I may be patient with others; tensions are high and emotions are on the surface.

I value the people in my life—the people at home, church, work, school, and wherever—as more important than my viewpoint.  I will not give up on any relationships because of this election; it’s not worth it.  If I am “unfriended,” I will seek to win them back with kindness.

I will speak respectfully about all the candidates.  Concerning the presidency, I believe that neither Trump nor Biden is Jesus.  I believe that neither Trump nor Biden is Satan.

I recognize that good communication is hard and takes effort.  I will engage in conversations and not reduce it only to soundbites and slogans.

I will be informed and vote my conscience.  I recognize that not everyone who goes through that process will reach the same conclusion as I do. 

I will be informed, but will also limit my intake of news and media because I know the coverage is very heated right now, and I know that what spills out of my mouth is what I keep pumping into my brain and my heart.  I will fill my brain and my heart with good things.

While I hold myself to high standards, I will be prepared for those who don’t.  I will overlook everything I can, correct humbly what I must, and interact with integrity.  I will avoid handing out “holier than thou” scoldings.  Above all, I will encourage others and point them to Jesus.

Finally, I will invite others to pledge themselves also to peace and respect.

So help me God.


truth + love

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