"The Crusader Attitude"

Pastor had an excellent message today. He was warning us against being too quick to judge and accuse others. I was challenged. It seems in our highly charged world today it is all too easy to take offense over things that really are of little concern. Pastor spoke of the "Crusader Attitude".
Paying more attention to the imperfections of others than to the perfection of Christ.
Placing the attention on the flaws and faults of others, vs looking for their good points.
Seeking credit by discrediting others.
Circulating rumors through gossip and false and evil speaking.

As this political cycle gets more and more intense, it will be difficult to stay away from "Black and White Thinking." That is, thinking that the opponent is totally evil, or that they're totally good. The news media and political advisers know that this works to great effect. It sells newpapers and attracts viewers to whip everyone into a frenzy about how bad the opposing side is and how we'll all perish if we make the wrong choice. I think we could end up with some really bad decisions if the wrong political party gets into office. But on the other hand, I don't think that the planet will disappear and life as we know it will become non-existent. I don't think the salvation of our nation is in the hands of one or the other political party. As Christians, we have to depend on the grace and mercy of our Lord. That doesn't mean I don't have strongly held beliefs about public policy, I do. But to demonize someone who has different beliefs about public policy is of no value, and only serves to polarize us. There are people who count on that polarization to get our support. Our job as Christians is to keep our heads, to keep as our foundation the idea that we are all sinners who have been saved only by the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus on the cross of Calvary. There is no saving grace in anything else, no politician, no political party, no nation, and no kingdom but the Kingdom of God. I have proudly served my country for over thirty years, I will give no place to anyone regarding my patriotism and love for my country. I have fought for it and put my life on the line for it. But it is not my savior, nor is any man. I choose to trust in the sufficiency of Christ and the providence of God Almighty to keep and save this nation. I will do my best not to make evil judgements and gossipy accusations against those whom I disagree with. I will feel free to defend the Gospel and disagree with policy that is anti-life and anti-Christ. I will try not to denigrate those who disagree with me, but more to challenge their ideas. I will try to stay away from caustic and denigrating blogs and news forums.