Let’s talk voting

There are going to be some pretty upset people when this vote gets called. Our country is divided over the two candidates that have been placed in front of us. If you are anything like me, neither candidate checks all the boxes you’d like a candidate to check. How are we supposed to think about this vote?

There are a few things that I try to keep in mind when I approach the voting booth:

1. This is a temporary home — Elections come and go. Earthly governments are temporary. Voting is an important part of our duty to this country, but we have to realize that no political leader fully embodies the Christian values I endorse. I vote once every four years for the president, but I vote for Jesus every day in the way I choose to live my life. The president sets policy for governance, but it is the everyday person who changes what this country looks like. Don’t live for America, live for the kingdom that is coming.

2. Being a peacemaker — I’d be lying if I said that there hasn’t been times where this election has gotten my passions stirred. Both candidates have said things that frustrate me and left me angry. But I am reminded that my ultimate duty is to work with Christ to bring peace to our divided nation. That I need to work to speak well of these candidates. And I need to speak well of my neighbors who are voting different than I am.

3. Loving our neighbors — We often think about how a candidate will impact our own personal life. But the truth is that our election should be more focused on how candidates will take care of our neighbors than ourselves. I say that and immediately pause because it is not so much the duty of our president to take care f our neighbor as it is our duty to take care of our neighbor. We often blame the president, when we should spend more time looking in the mirror. We give the president authority over things we should be personally responsible for. Stop giving away your power and instead take personal responsibility for your neighborhood.

4. Stewardship — God has placed you in this place and in this moment to do well with the things entrusted to you. One of those things is your vote. You absolutely should consider the issues and the people and vote. But your responsibility does not end there. You have influence daily to make this country a more beautiful or ugly place to live in. Use your giftings and authority well, for the good of others and the glory of God.

5. Pray — The Bible reminds us that government is important and worthy of our support, especially in prayer. I hope, by now, you’ve spent some time in prayer over this election and these candidates. May the Lord have His way in our country. And, regardless of who wins, may we remember who is on the throne.

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