We had many discussions leading up to Election Day. My son was allowed to stay up much later than usual (though not as long as it took to hit the 270 mark), and we kept talking. As we learned together this year, I went beyond the lessons of which issues matter most for our family. This time, I wanted to make clear that no matter who is in a position of authority, our position does not change. Here are the lessons I teach and strive to model.

1. No matter who holds the president’s office, my character remains the same. Who I am doesn’t change with the person in office. The roles I fill and the way I respond remain consistent.

2. No matter what the president or any other leader says, my beliefs do not change. Change in beliefs happens through deep study, asking tough questions, and conviction by the Spirit.

3. No matter what happens in Washington, D.C., or any other government office, my daily routine is unaffected. I still get up in the morning, drink my coffee, and teach my children. I still read my Bible, pray, worship, and serve others.

4. Finally, no matter who holds any earthly position of authority, God remains sovereign. Throughout Scripture, we read that God places people in positions of authority, but we are also reminded to follow God’s commands first.

I’ve had many elections that did not end in my candidate’s success, but my response is to continue praying for the leaders and the decisions they make. In other words, an election does not fundamentally change my identity as God’s child or His position over all things. As a believer, I hold on to His Truth, live in His good, pleasing, and perfect will to the best of my ability, and rest in His grace when I fall short.