Song: “So Do The Neighbors” by Trace Adkins, featuring Snoop Dogg

Good morning, and welcome to Starting Our Day Together: A Few Minutes to Get the Day Started in the Right Direction.

Today, many Americans are going out to vote.

Others have already voted early.

And as we face this important election, there are strong opinions, real concerns, and a whole lot of emotions.

So, this morning, I want to remind us of something: Just because we disagree does not mean we have to become enemies.

You have a right to your opinion.

I have a right to mine.

We can challenge each other’s ideas, question a candidate’s record, and disagree about the direction of our country.

But we can do those things without threats, insults, or hatred.

The person voting differently from you may be your neighbor, your coworker, your friend, or somebody sitting beside you at church.

That person still deserves to be treated with dignity.

Romans 12:18 (ESV) tells us, “If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.”

Notice those words: so far as it depends on you.

I cannot control everybody’s attitude.

I cannot control what somebody posts.

But I am responsible for my words, my actions, and how I respond.

And that responsibility goes with us into this election.

First, vote with understanding.

Take time to look beyond the slogans, commercials, and social media posts.

Ask: What has this candidate actually done?

What does the record show?

Have their actions matched their promises?

Check information before accepting it and certainly before sharing it.

Look at credible sources, examine the context, and be willing to question a claim even when it supports the candidate you like.

Our emotions can tell us that something matters.

But emotions alone cannot tell us whether something is true.

Second, consider the good of the whole country.

Of course we care about our families, our finances, and our futures.

Those concerns matter.

But we should also ask: How would these policies affect my neighbors?

What about children, older adults, veterans, struggling families, and people whose circumstances are different from mine?

Who do I believe will serve responsibly, respect people’s rights, and work for the good of our country?

No candidate is perfect.

But we can thoughtfully consider character, competence, policies, and performance. Then we can vote according to an informed conscience.

Third, carry your convictions with respect.

You do not have to surrender what you believe to treat somebody well.

You can say, “I disagree with you,” without saying, “You don’t matter.”

You can listen without agreeing.

You can speak firmly without being cruel.

And you can walk away from a heated conversation without having to win the last word.

For those of us who follow Jesus, our conduct is part of our witness.

People hear what we say about our faith, but they also see how we treat somebody who challenges us.

And finally, remember that we still have to live together after the votes are counted.

When the campaign signs come down, our communities will still need us.

People will still need food, encouragement, opportunity, and care.

If your candidate wins, respond with humility.

If your candidate loses, respond with dignity.

Allow the counting and verification process to do its work.

Check claims before spreading them, and address concerns through peaceful, lawful means.

We can hold leaders accountable and continue working for change while treating one another as fellow Americans.

An election determines who holds office.

It does not relieve any of us of our responsibility to be a good neighbor.

So today, do your research.

Examine the record. Pray for wisdom.

Vote for the people you believe will best serve and represent you, while considering the good of our nation as a whole.

And remember: Your ballot is your voice. Your behavior is your example. Let both reflect thoughtful judgment and respect for others.

Let’s pray.

Father, give us wisdom as we make decisions for our nation. Help us seek truth, examine our own hearts, and treat others with dignity. Guard our words when emotions rise. Give those elected the wisdom, humility, and courage to serve responsibly. Help us pursue justice, practice peace, and love our neighbors through our actions. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Go exercise your right to vote and remember your responsibility to love your neighbor.