We Have a Voice

There are always firsts in our lives. I remember the first time my father taught me to ride my red Montgomery Ward bike without training wheels. My father explained the process and I put trust in my dad to hold the bike as I peddled along until he was sure I could handle it. I remember the first time I drove a car without supervision and my mom encouraged me to watch not only what was ahead but to be aware of everything around me. I remember the first time I voted. My parents spoke about the candidates and what amendments to vote on. I voted based on what I overheard of my parent’s preferences. Back in those days, the news media reported facts from both sides. My parents listened carefully to the candidates and then voted their convictions. Following the first major voting experience of mine, I learned to research and come to my own conclusions.  

I cannot put my finger on the time when news media began pushing their party or agenda to indoctrinate us to a certain position.  Today, politicians take part in mudslinging, witch hunts, along with half-truths and lies told during debates. What happened to true facts and not fiction in politics?  

This year is a very important year for our country, especially for Christians. If we do not voice our convictions by voting, what right do we have to complain?  I watched the Republican National Convention and the Democratic National Convention. I know lots of promises were made, some that are impossible without majority votes both in the House and Senate. We need to educate ourselves more fully and help our children and grandchildren discern facts from fiction.  We should not vote for a particular party because our families in the past voted that way. 

It our responsibility as Christians to check the record of each candidate, whether local, state, or nationally. Check their past voting records and ethical views. If they have been in office before, check what they have accomplished or failed in their city, state, or country. Christians’ voices are vital to our nation’s success and prosperity. What better way can we influence our nation by educating ourselves, sharing what we learn, and voting?  Scripture reminds us that God’s blessing on a nation depends on their willingness to put Him first. We have to ask ourselves which candidates uphold the principles God desires and blesses.  

We have a dual identity as Christians. Under Christ, we have eternal obligations. We are members of a heavenly kingdom and an earthly kingdom. Our country was founded on Christian principles. “In God We Trust” is printed on our money. If an issue doesn’t conflict with God’s principles, then we are to honor our earthly government. By voting, hopefully we can return this nation to kingdom values. This life is temporary; but we must give God what He demands of us while we are on this earth.

“But our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ.” –Philippians 3:20 (NKJV)

There should be no question that Christians want to do good for the nation. Voting is one form of doing good. By voting for worthy, competent, wise candidates, we hope that the common good will come to more people.  

As Jesus said, we are to pray, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done, On earth as it is in heaven (Matt. 6:10 NKJV).

If the candidate I vote for is not elected, I remember God has a plan and He is always in control. I trust Him. I pray for wise leaders to make the right decisions for our city, state, or nationally. The Lord honors our prayers even when we don’t see answers. 

Here are some key things to remember when you vote: 

1. Pray for wisdom and listen for God’s desires.

2. Vote your convictions as a Christian based on biblical principles. 

3. Do not be swayed by family tradition if it doesn’t line up with God’s Word.

4. Research candidates – you will probably never agree with all their views.

5. Be aware news media has become about opinions instead of facts – so find the truth. 

6. Do not believe rumors on social media – do your own research. 

7. Don’t vote on personality; vote on the issues.

We need to be bold, speak what we believe, and vote our convictions. We are:“Proclaiming the kingdom of God and teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness and without hindrance.” –Acts 28:31 (NKJV)

Our goal is to make God glorious in this land where we live temporarily. Let’s make Him look great, appreciated, and valuable. 

Let’s pray:

Father, as a Christian help me to vote according to Your heart for this country. Show me scriptures and speak wise counsel to me. Help me walk uprightly with those who disagree with me. I want this nation to come into unity and only by Your grace will that happen.  Amen.