Proverbs 14:12: There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death.

Harry Truman once commented on the importance of polls to leadership, with the following insight: “I wonder how far Moses would have gone if he had taken a poll in Egypt? What would Jesus Christ have preached if He had taken a  poll in Israel?  Where would the Reformation be if Martin Luther had taken a poll? It isn’t the polls or public opinion that counts. It is right and wrong and leadership – men with fortitude, honesty and a belief in the right – that makes epochs in the history of the world.

In this election year, the polls often send messages that confuse voters and candidates rather than substantiate positions they proclaim.  So, we say: truth is more important than opinion; and facts are more vital than interpretations of them. 

How shall we compare and contrast what we hear with what we expect?  We need to speak clearly and consistently, and to look at a standard that is faultless.  It is important to know what God says, for He has the right to proclaim to his creatures what they should know, and what they should do.  The Ten Commandments are a foundation for truth, and a reason for moral convictions. The grace of God in Christ is the blueprint for charity and the hope for treating people with kindness and care.

These words from Romans 12 teach a standard that is morally certain, and offer a pattern to follow in life:

Romans 12:9-21 9Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality.    14Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.  17Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. 18If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. 20On the contrary:
   "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty,

            give him something to drink. In doing this,

            you will heap burning coals on his head."

21Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

May God grant wisdom to seek His truth and to live it.  His opinion is the one which truly counts, both now and through eternity!