I Did! I Won! You Can Do Same! by Robert Socha

I have thrown my hat in the ring and run for City Council.

I won.

With all of the rhetoric and angst stirring the electorate’s emotions, the feeling that washed over me at the moment I learned the counted votes were in my favor was euphoric.

The past few days were not so. There was a moment this past Saturday that helped me navigate the run-up to election day. I was sitting in my reading chair, having just finished my morning’s devotions, quietly sipping my coffee. The self-inflicted pressure I felt at that moment overwhelmed me. I still had so much to do. I had to go out and knock on doors, for I hadn’t hit every home in my ward as I planned. I enlisted some friends and supporters to accomplish this goal but felt I should have enlisted more, for more were willing. Have I done enough to secure the victory? How many people will I disappoint if I lose? What will I do then?

A tear ran down my cheek.

Just then, a whisper spoke to my spirit and quieted my soul. I heard the voice of the Lord say, “Robert, if you win, you win. If you lose, you lose. You have run well. Don’t worry about the outcome.”

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you shall find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30

At that moment, there was peace in my heart. The overwhelming weight of thoughts and burdens lifted, and hope entered my soul. I reminded myself that I am running to serve our city well, make a difference, and be an ambassador for the community.

As election day approached, I was hopeful and optimistic. When the answer came at 11:45 PM that I was victorious, everything was worth it.

Now I am translating that message toward the national election for President of the United States. As of this writing, it appears the electoral victory is trending toward a win for the man I did not choose, and I am concerned for the direction our great nation will travel under their leadership. I have hope the President will still emerge victoriously, but the path appears to be severely bumpy.

Another reminder in my heart, “Don’t worry about the outcome.”

When Donald Trump won in 2016, I had a burden not to agonize about the election’s results but pray the Church would be strong and courageous in her declaration of the Gospel; salvation through faith in Christ (Acts 4:24-25). I carry this burden to this day, and it has been emphasized in my soul as the electorate appears to wane for the man I hoped would continue in a second term.

I do not fear. I trust in God, and in the checks-and-balances our government system provides to keep those elected to office in line.

I pray for strength and yearn for the courts of the Lord.

I will be strong and courageous and keep the charge of the Lord my God.

I will continue to serve my family, community, and fellow man through business, service clubs, city council, and the Church.

I have peace in my heart because God Himself has comforted me.

It is with a firm conviction that I call on the Body of Christ to be brave and take action toward proclaiming Christ alone, the hope of glory. The Church in the United States has been pampered and soft concerning evangelism, righteousness, and affliction. Maybe this is the shaking we need to shed apathy and embrace suffering for the cross, rejoicing in so doing. As Christ, Himself said, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” Matthew 16:24

May we be daring enough to yield to this call and boldly speak in Jesus’ name, whoever prevails nationally. “Now is the favorable time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2