The Bible on Politics

Words of the wise, spoken quietly, should be heard

rather than the shout of a ruler of fools.

Wisdom is better than weapons of war;

but one sinner destroys much good.

Ecclesiastes 9:17-18

These verses have been much on my mind lately in light of the current presidential race and the media surrounding it. Our nation has grown tired of watching much of the good she was founded for fall into ruin on account of foolish policies and outright sin, and the people are beginning to stand up and speak out for something different. But do we really know what the leader of a great country is supposed to look like?

Many look to a man with great worldly success and bold words, someone completely unashamed to give public voice to the pent-up anger and indignation that they feel for the errors of our present government. Their hopes are pinned on a leader who has a lot to say about how things could be better, who wants to crack down on big problems and the people who cause them; a leader with absolute confidence in himself and his ability to turn the country around. This kind of man gathers an admiring crowd, you can be sure of that.

On the other hand, many more look to a man who started life at the bottom of the social scale, someone who doesn't seem to display the classic nature of a politician. They hope for a leader who, despite his unassuming appearance, calmly and thoughtfully assesses and addresses the needs of his nation; a leader who doesn't have any interest in being a one-man show, but is committed to do his best for the sake of his country. This kind of man may not have reporters chasing him down, but he commands respect wherever he goes.

The world has seen many leaders of many kinds, and while men quick with words can make for exciting chapters in history books, it is often the men with active minds and careful tongues who make history most enjoyable for the people who live in it. Remember, "Loose lips sink ships," and the words of a leader have the most power of all. Your vote writes history -- choose wisely.