14 Nov, 2020 Did The Election Results Upset Your Child?

by Lee Ann Mancini

Welcome to America 2020,

where kids pay attention to politics…

This year’s political climate has divided families, friends, business associates, and our country. I have Christian family members who claim that they will no longer speak to one another because of their political beliefs. This is a tragedy beyond comprehension! Why has it come to this? People are fearful: fear of control, power, safety, rights, freedom, the economy, and so much more. How can you help if your child is upset with the election results?

For many months, we listened to the politician’s promises. Our children have heard their pleas on the television and their parents’ discussions in the home. Politics may have been a part of discussions in their classrooms. 

After the election is over and the president-elect is set to take office, we must remember;

“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God” (Romans 13:1, NIV).

Please note that we are to submit to the authorities in line with the doctrines put forth in God’s word. But God is in control, and he has placed those in our government according to his perfect will. 

Maybe there is disappointment

Our children may feel the loss of whomever they wanted to be president, didn’t win. If the parents/adults feel loss, sadness, fear, or anger, so can their children. It best to sit down and explain that God has chosen who will rule and guide our country. And because we love God and have faith in his grace and provision, there is nothing to fear. However, if the parents/adults exhibit anger, disappointment, or fear in their actions, the child will think their words “not to be fearful” are meaningless. More it caught than taught! 

Our children see and hear this fear in our voices and our actions. Help to reassure your child that it’s going to be okay, the election results don’t have to scare them. Let your child see you reaching out to the others who have disagreed with you as we are instructed to be peacemakers (Matthew 5:9). This will also help you. Spreading love at this time is very much needed. 

Jesus prayed to the Father before he died,

“Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name, the name you gave me, so that they may be one as we are one” (John 17:11 NIV).

 

Practical steps to take

_ Take out your Bible and read with your child all the verses that tell of God’s provision and protection and how we are all a part of the body of Christ. God’s word teaches unity, and Satan loves to conquer and divide. It is one of the best weapons in his arsenal. 

_ Perhaps, look up past elections that were heavily contested and caused division. Let your child see that it is nothing new; it’s just politics. This is a great place to start.

_ Reassure your children that after all is said and done, their life will still be blessed, their needs will still be met; after all, God the Father promises to take care of his sheep and especially his little lambs. The election results will not change God’s plan.

Lee Ann Mancini is the award-winning children’s author, publisher, and executive producer of the Sea Kids books and TV series. She is a renowned speaker and Bible college professor whose passion is to help parents raise their children to have a strong foundation in Jesus.  

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