🇺🇸 AMERICA, ARE YOU PAYING ATTENTION? THE ELECTION IS OVER, BUT THE DECISIONS ARE JUST BEGINNING!
A Friday Afternoon Look at Washington, Our States, and the Issues Every American Should Be Watching
Scriptural Foundation: Proverbs 14:34 (KJV)
"Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people."
GOOD FRIDAY AFTERNOON, AMERICA!
Greetings from the Philippines!
While Cecilia and I continue our missionary work thousands of miles from home, our hearts and prayers remain very much with the United States of America.
And today, I want to address something that I believe deserves far more attention than it ordinarily receives.
THE ELECTION IS OVER. THE CAMPAIGN SIGNS ARE COMING DOWN. BUT THE DECISIONS THAT WILL AFFECT OUR COUNTRY ARE FAR FROM OVER!
You see, we Americans have a tendency to focus tremendous attention on elections.
We watch the debates.
We listen to the promises.
We follow the polls.
We celebrate victories and mourn defeats.
And then, after the votes are counted, many of us return to our daily routines.
But here's something I want you to consider:
ELECTION DAY DOESN'T END OUR RESPONSIBILITY AS CITIZENS. IT BEGINS ANOTHER CHAPTER OF IT!
Because while the cameras move on to the next major headline, decisions continue being made in Washington, in state capitols, in courtrooms, and in local government offices.
And those decisions can affect your taxes, your children's education, your family's finances, your constitutional rights, and the future of our nation.
So this afternoon, let's examine several developments that deserve our attention.
1. WASHINGTON HAS ANOTHER GOVERNMENT FUNDING DEADLINE APPROACHING!
December 11, 2026.
That's a date Americans should be watching carefully.
Federal government funding is currently operating under a temporary extension scheduled to expire on December 11.
And Congress has yet to resolve the larger disagreements over federal spending.
The discussions involve defense appropriations, domestic programs, federal priorities, and the conditions lawmakers want attached to spending legislation.
There are also serious disagreements concerning the ongoing conflict involving Iran and how congressional funding should be used.
Now, here's my question.
WHY DOES IT SO OFTEN TAKE THE THREAT OF A GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN TO GET WASHINGTON TO DO WHAT IT WAS ELECTED TO DO?
Families across America must establish budgets.
Businesses must manage expenses.
Churches and ministries must exercise financial responsibility.
And when the money isn't available, adjustments have to be made.
Shouldn't we expect the same seriousness from those responsible for managing the nation's finances?
I'm not suggesting that federal budgeting is simple. It certainly isn't.
But Americans deserve transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of public resources.
OUR ELECTED OFFICIALS SHOULD REMEMBER THAT THE MONEY THEY APPROPRIATE ISN'T THEIRS. IT BELONGS TO THE PEOPLE THEY REPRESENT!
2. STATE ELECTIONS MAY HAVE CHANGED MORE THAN MANY AMERICANS REALIZE!
While much of the nation's attention focused on the House and Senate, millions of Americans were also voting on state legislative seats.
According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, voters in 46 states selected more than 6,000 state legislators in the November 3 elections.
Think about that!
Thousands of individuals who will help determine policies affecting everyday life.
And those policies can involve:
Public education and school administration
State taxes and spending
Housing and property regulations
Public safety and criminal justice
Health care and family policy
Election procedures and voting requirements
Here's what concerns me.
WE SOMETIMES KNOW MORE ABOUT WHAT'S HAPPENING IN WASHINGTON THAN WE KNOW ABOUT WHAT'S HAPPENING IN OUR OWN STATE CAPITOL!
Yet state lawmakers make decisions that can affect our families just as directly as federal legislation.
If you don't know who represents you in your state legislature, find out.
Learn what legislation they're supporting.
And don't wait until the next election to begin paying attention.
3. VOTING LAWS ARE CHANGING—AND NOT EVERY STATE IS MOVING IN THE SAME DIRECTION!
One of the most significant, yet sometimes overlooked, developments from the midterm elections involves election administration.
Voters considered measures involving identification requirements, voter registration, citizenship language, and voting rights.
Nevada approved a constitutional voter identification measure.
Ohio and North Carolina also approved measures involving voter identification requirements.
Meanwhile, voters in Arizona, California, and Colorado rejected proposed changes involving voter identification.
Several states approved constitutional language addressing citizenship qualifications for voting.
And Massachusetts approved a measure establishing same-day voter registration beginning in 2028.
Now, whether you favor stricter identification requirements or believe additional safeguards are needed to ensure eligible citizens can vote without unnecessary barriers, one principle should unite us:
ELECTIONS MUST BE LAWFUL, ACCESSIBLE TO ELIGIBLE VOTERS, TRANSPARENT, AND WORTHY OF PUBLIC CONFIDENCE!
We should be able to discuss election security and voting access without automatically questioning one another's patriotism.
And we should demand accurate information rather than accepting every accusation circulating on social media.
A REPUBLIC CANNOT REMAIN HEALTHY WHEN ITS CITIZENS STOP TRUSTING THE PROCESS BY WHICH THEY CHOOSE THEIR LEADERS.
4. TAXES, PROPERTY OWNERSHIP, AND FAMILY FINANCES ARE ON THE LINE!
Here's another area where state-level decisions deserve greater attention.
Several states voted on significant tax proposals.
Florida voters approved an expansion of property-tax exemptions for homeowners.
Colorado approved a move toward a graduated income-tax structure.
California voters approved an extension of higher income-tax rates.
Other states considered proposals to restrict or reduce taxes.
Now, regardless of which side of the political aisle you occupy, taxation affects almost everyone.
But here's something we sometimes forget.
EVERY TAX CHANGE HAS CONSEQUENCES!
A tax reduction may leave more money in the pockets of families and businesses.
But if it reduces government revenue, lawmakers must decide whether to reduce spending, find other revenue sources, or change how services are funded.
Likewise, increasing taxes may provide additional public revenue, but it can also place greater demands upon households and businesses.
The question shouldn't simply be whether a proposal sounds appealing.
THE QUESTION SHOULD BE: WHO BENEFITS, WHO PAYS, AND WHAT ARE THE LONG-TERM CONSEQUENCES?
That's a question every informed citizen should be asking.
5. THE COURTS ARE STILL MAKING DECISIONS THAT AFFECT NATIONAL POLICY!
On November 9, the United States Supreme Court allowed the Trump administration to resume work on a border-barrier project in the Big Bend region of Texas while litigation continues.
The dispute involves immigration enforcement, environmental protections, federal authority, and the extent to which certain government decisions can be reviewed by the courts.
Supporters emphasize border security and the federal government's responsibility to enforce immigration laws.
Opponents raise concerns about environmental damage, protected lands, and the legal authority used to bypass certain requirements.
The Court's action permitted construction to proceed; it did not finally settle every issue in the underlying lawsuit.
And that's an important distinction.
A COURT'S INTERIM DECISION IS NOT ALWAYS THE SAME THING AS A FINAL RULING ON THE MERITS!
Americans should take the time to understand what the courts have actually decided before accepting political interpretations from either side.
Our system of government depends upon the proper exercise of executive, legislative, and judicial authority.
And no branch should be treated as though it exists beyond constitutional accountability.
<WritingBlock id="81643" variant="document">## 6. EDUCATION AND FAMILY POLICY ARE BEING DECIDED AT THE STATE LEVEL!
Another area receiving considerable attention involves schools, parental concerns, and student athletics.
Voters in Arizona, Colorado, Nebraska, and Washington approved measures addressing eligibility for participation in school sports according to sex.
These decisions reflect continuing disagreements about fairness in athletic competition, inclusion, student welfare, and the appropriate roles of lawmakers, schools, and families.
The issues are complex, and the debates are often emotional.
But here's something I believe every American should remember.
CHILDREN ARE NOT POLITICAL TROPHIES!
They are human beings deserving of dignity, protection, appropriate guidance, and opportunities to develop their abilities.
Parents should remain informed about educational policies, school board decisions, curriculum requirements, and the laws governing their children's education.
And elected officials should be willing to explain their decisions without resorting to personal attacks or political theatrics.
Proverbs 22:6 reminds us:
"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it."
Whatever our political disagreements, we should never forget the tremendous responsibility involved in preparing the next generation.
7. ABORTION AND OTHER MORAL QUESTIONS REMAIN AT THE FOREFRONT OF STATE POLICY!
The November elections also produced significant developments concerning abortion laws.
Voters in Virginia and Nevada approved constitutional protections for abortion rights.
Missouri voters rejected a proposal that would have reversed constitutional protections approved in 2024.
Idaho voters rejected a measure that would have established statutory abortion rights.
These outcomes demonstrate that the debate remains active and that voters in different states are making different decisions.
As a Christian pastor, I approach questions involving human life with deep convictions about the sanctity of life.
But I also recognize that Americans hold sharply differing views about abortion, constitutional protections, government authority, and personal medical decisions.
Those disagreements deserve serious examination rather than slogans alone.
MORAL QUESTIONS DON'T DISAPPEAR SIMPLY BECAUSE AN ELECTION HAS BEEN DECIDED!
And whatever position we hold, our words and actions should reflect a commitment to truth, compassion, and the dignity of human life.
8. SOME ELECTION RESULTS ARE STILL BEING RESOLVED!
Here's something many Americans may not realize.
Even after election night, the legal process of counting, verifying, and certifying votes can continue.
Alaska's closely contested U.S. Senate race is one example.
The contest between Republican Senator Dan Sullivan and Democratic challenger Mary Peltola has involved continuing ballot counting and a legal dispute over access to information concerning rejected absentee ballots.
A state judge rejected a campaign request for certain voter information, citing practical and confidentiality concerns.
Overseas ballots may still arrive through November 18 under the state's election procedures.
THIS IS WHY WE SHOULD NEVER CONFUSE AN ELECTION-NIGHT PROJECTION WITH AN OFFICIAL CERTIFIED RESULT!
Our responsibility is to insist upon lawful procedures, accurate counting, and respect for legitimate election processes.
That standard should apply regardless of which political party benefits.
9. DON'T OVERLOOK THE PEOPLE WHO GOVERN CLOSEST TO HOME!
Now, here's something that doesn't always receive the attention it deserves.
While Americans debate the President, Congress, and the Supreme Court, decisions are being made every week by governors, state legislatures, mayors, county commissions, and school boards.
Decisions concerning roads.
Public safety.
Property assessments.
Emergency preparedness.
School budgets.
Water systems.
Housing.
Local taxes.
And the administration of essential public services.
These matters may not generate national headlines, but they directly affect everyday life.
YOU CAN WIN AN ARGUMENT ABOUT WASHINGTON AND STILL LOSE SIGHT OF WHAT'S HAPPENING IN YOUR OWN COMMUNITY!
Find out when your local government meets.
Read the proposed budget.
Learn who represents you.
Ask respectful but difficult questions.
And when an official makes a decision that affects your community, seek to understand the reasoning and consequences.
RESPONSIBLE CITIZENSHIP REQUIRES MORE THAN SHOWING UP TO VOTE EVERY TWO OR FOUR YEARS!
10. CHRISTIANS, WE HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY THAT GOES BEYOND POLITICS!
Now, let me bring this discussion back to something far more important than political parties.
OUR RESPONSIBILITY BEFORE GOD!
First Timothy 2:1–2 instructs believers to pray for those in authority.
Notice that Scripture doesn't limit that instruction to leaders we agree with.
We're to pray for those who govern.
For wisdom.
For justice.
For peace.
For righteousness.
And for decisions that promote the welfare of those entrusted to their care.
But here's something else.
PRAYER DOESN'T EXCUSE IGNORANCE!
We should be willing to learn.
To examine the facts.
To distinguish truth from rumor.
To hold our leaders accountable.
And to exercise the rights and responsibilities of citizenship with integrity.
We should also remember that our ultimate allegiance as Christians belongs to Jesus Christ.
Not to the Republican Party.
Not to the Democratic Party.
Not to an elected official.
And not to a political movement.
JESUS CHRIST IS LORD!
That conviction should influence how we evaluate public policy, how we treat those who disagree with us, and how we conduct ourselves in political conversations.
A PERSONAL WORD FROM THE PHILIPPINES
Cecilia and I are currently thousands of miles from the United States.
But distance hasn't diminished our concern for our country.
I served in the United States Navy for twenty-seven years.
I've watched our nation experience tremendous victories, painful disappointments, political upheavals, and significant changes in its direction.
And after all those years, I remain convinced of something.
AMERICA'S GREATEST NEED ISN'T SIMPLY BETTER POLITICAL STRATEGY. IT'S A RENEWED COMMITMENT TO TRUTH, RESPONSIBILITY, INTEGRITY, AND RIGHTEOUSNESS!
That responsibility begins with individuals.
With families.
With churches.
With communities.
And yes, with those entrusted with governmental authority.
We cannot expect our leaders to demonstrate virtues that we ourselves are unwilling to practice.
If we want honesty, we must be honest.
If we want accountability, we must be accountable.
If we want justice, we must practice justice.
And if we want our nation to recognize the importance of righteousness, THEN THE CHURCH MUST FIRST DEMONSTRATE WHAT RIGHTEOUS LIVING LOOKS LIKE!
ONE FINAL QUESTION, AMERICA!
The elections have taken place.
Some candidates won.
Others lost.
Some policies were approved.
Others were rejected.
But the most important question remains:
WHAT ARE WE GOING TO DO WITH THE RESPONSIBILITIES THAT NOW LIE BEFORE US?
Will we remain informed?
Will we hold our leaders accountable?
Will we examine the consequences of public policy?
Will we pray for our nation?
Will we treat those who disagree with us with dignity?
Or will we simply wait until the next election and begin the same cycle all over again?
AMERICA, DON'T JUST WATCH WHAT HAPPENS NEXT. PAY ATTENTION TO WHY IT HAPPENS, WHO IT AFFECTS, AND WHAT YOU CAN RESPONSIBLY DO ABOUT IT!
Because the future of a nation isn't shaped only by those who hold office.
It's also shaped by the character, wisdom, participation, and convictions of the people they represent.
And remember:
"Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people." — Proverbs 14:34
🙏 A FRIDAY AFTERNOON PRAYER FOR AMERICA
Heavenly Father,
We come before You today on behalf of the United States of America.
Lord, our nation faces many challenges.
Political division.
Economic uncertainty.
International conflict.
Disagreements over laws, education, family policy, and the responsibilities of government.
And too often, Father, we allow those disagreements to become sources of bitterness and hostility.
Forgive us for the times we've placed political loyalties above biblical principles.
Forgive us when we've spoken without understanding, judged without compassion, or repeated information without examining whether it was true.
Grant wisdom to our President, Congress, governors, state legislators, judges, and local officials.
May they exercise their responsibilities with integrity, humility, courage, and respect for the people they serve.
Protect our military personnel and their families.
Comfort those who are grieving.
Provide for families struggling financially.
Strengthen our schools and communities.
And help Your Church remain faithful to its calling to proclaim Jesus Christ.
Father, remind us that our hope ultimately rests not in earthly governments but in Your eternal kingdom.
And while we remain citizens of this nation, help us fulfill our responsibilities with wisdom, prayer, compassion, and truth.
In the mighty and precious name of Jesus Christ, we pray.
AMEN AND AMEN!
A FINAL WORD FROM PILGRIM OUTREACH MINISTRIES INTERNATIONAL
While we continue to pray for America, our missionary work here in the Philippines moves forward.
We're preparing for our December 20 Christmas Outreach, with a goal of ministering to 500 families.
We invite you to pray for this effort, share our message, and support the ministry as the Lord enables you.
Your Feet to the Nations.
Help us help them—one soul at a time.
Pastor James Langston
Senior Pastor / Missionary
Pilgrim Outreach Ministries International
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