4 Political Steps Every Christian Needs to Take Now
Americans have the opportunity to vote in annual elections to shape our nation. What decisions are you making in preparation of going to the polls? Here are some biblical steps to take before you vote!
1 Chronicles 12:32 “Of Issachar, men who had understanding of the times, to know what Israel ought to do” (ESV)
1. Be Intentional. Vote. Be informed. Your vote matters. While your actual vote may not seem to make a difference, it is one of the most significant ways we can communicate what we feel is best for the welfare of where God has placed us. Complacency, laziness, and apathy should not stop us from going to the polls nor from doing our homework to discover the truth about the candidates and parties. While our political age is confusing and full of deception and manipulation, may we be faithful to be informed in our decisions. Will you vote on election day?
Jeremiah 29:7 “But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.”
2. Be Biblical. Policies and platforms matter. Many voters are swayed by their past history of voting patterns, organizational propaganda, party preferences, familiar opinions, and sound bites. Christians should instead be led and guided by biblical truth. While no political candidate or party is perfect, we should seek to choose those whose policies and platforms are most in line with God’s commandments and principles. Will you seek out God’s truths for today’s times?
Romans 12:2 “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
3. Be Observant. Many candidates will try to mislead you and mask their real character. Some will offer slander of their opponent or mere pragmatic arguments to tell you what you want to hear. Pay attention. Look to the heart of the individual. See who they really are as best as you can discern. Character matters. The fruit of God’s Spirit manifests clearly in the lives of genuine believers. Seek out true Jesus-following leaders whenever possible. Will you use wisdom and discernment when voting?
1 Samuel 16:7 “But the LORD said to Samuel, ‘Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart.’”
4. Be Prayerful. Talk with God through the Holy Spirit within you with the Bible in front of you. Listen. The Lord may guide you to peace in voting for a major party candidate. The Lord may guide you to write in a third-party candidate or to not vote for a particular office or on a certain issue. Regardless of the election results, commit to being more prayerful for your national, state, and local government leaders. Be grateful for the good work you see being done while lifting up the evil to God for justice and deliverance. Will you pray more fervently through this election season and beyond?
1 Timothy 2:1–2 "First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.”
For 20+ Christian articles to consider on voting and politics, visit www.trustworthyword.com/voting-politics