HOW SHOULD I VOTE?
“Moreover you shall select from all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them to be rulers of thousands, rulers of hundreds…” Exodus 18:21
One of the biggest concerns of Christians today, is who to vote for. Some are frustrated that God has not lined up the candidates they had hoped for. Others feel that the candidates of their choice do not really have a chance. Many feel that they will be forced to choose between the lesser of two evils. While some are “not just interested in politics”, others ask, “Will my vote really make a difference?” “Will it not be rigged?” “Might as well stay home”. Going by the sometimes palpable tension during the campaigns, a significant number have election anxiety, afraid of the outcome of the elections and violent reactions to the results. Yet some ask, “Where is God in this equation?” “Has he abandoned the nation to the rule of evil, corrupt men?”
We cannot deny that Government plays a significant role in the affairs of life. The actions of our leaders and the decisions made by Government, have a significant impact on the conditions we live in and will impact our families, churches, work place and policies in the nation. So as Christians, we should care about, and participate in the political process. Jesus said to give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, which in a democracy includes voting. So how do I vote?
Moses’ father-in-law, in giving him direction, gives us a pattern of who we should choose as leaders. Choose candidates with a proven track record. Those who maintain a position that affirms freedom, righteousness, justice, truth and integrity. Look for those whose policies will promote the spread of the gospel.
While exercising our right to participate in the elections, as important as this is, it is not the most important election in our life time. God’s election of us by grace is much more important. Our choice to become Christians is more important. Let us not look too much to politicians to do what only God can do.
And what if our candidate does not win? Should we lose hope in the future of the country? As believers, it’s not our job to worry or yield to despair, nor should we become angry and spread hatred towards political figures.
Rather, we should focus our energies in praying for God’s will to be accomplished, regardless of who is elected. God is sovereign, still on His throne and in complete control of the election process. The Bible assures us that God has a plan and a purpose for all things. We must put our trust in God and not in human politicians. We vote and we pray for the leaders who emerge and trust God to use them for His own Glory.
What we do know is that no matter the outcome of the elections, the gates of hell would not prevail against the Church. God’s call and purpose for our lives will still unfold. Is it not such a wonderful thing; that no matter the outcome of the elections, Jesus will win!
PRAYER THOUGHT
Lord our ears cry out for Your mercy and a longing to see You heal our land.
SONG
♬You Are God by Nathaniel Bassey https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJMNagqzDVM
FURTHER STUDY
Isaiah 46:10 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+46%3A10&version=NIV
Daniel 2:21-22 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Daniel+2%3A20-21&version=NIV
1Tim.2:1-4 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1Tim.2%3A1-4&version=NIV
Romans 13:1 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Romans+13%3A1&version=NIV
