In two short days America will go to the polls. Millions of us will exercise one of the most precious rights and responsibilities we have as citizens. We’ll cast our votes that will help determine the direction of our country.
Some of us will celebrate in victory. Others of us will be forced to accept defeat. Regardless of the outcome, this will be an election of historic proportions. Whether we elect the first African-American as President of our country, or the first female to the office of Vice-President, we’re living in unprecedented times.
When in our life have we faced so many issues? The economy is a concern to everyone. Immigration, though it’s taken a recent back-seat, is still an important subject to many. Terrorism and our national safety are more than just casual topics. These are just a few of the matters on everyone’s minds.
In addition to the presidential race and our national concerns, there are many propositions on the ballot that will set important precedents for our state. Proposition 8 – the marriage amendment, and Proposition 4 – parental notification for abortion, are both issues that people feel very strongly about.
How do we decide what’s right? How do we determine how to cast our ballot? For most of us, we align ourselves with one view or another based on our personal ideology - what we believe is the best solution, what we think makes the most sense.
In this “me-first” society it’s so easy to make our decisions based on how we think something will affect us. Which economic plan will most benefit my family? McCain’s? Obama’s? Who has the best plan to reduce my health care costs? Who will make it easier for our children to get a good college education?
Maybe it matters how we arrive at our decisions than just the actual decisions we make. As Christians, we believe the Bible – God’s Word – must be the foundation of every decision we make. So instead of deciding how a candidate’s policies will affect our checkbooks, maybe we should see how their personal character aligns with the absolute truth found in Scripture.
Consider this concept found in the book of Matthew, chapter 6, verses 33-34:
“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need. So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today.” (NLT)
If we prioritize the things that are important to God, such as character, compassion, and protecting the rights of those who can’t defend themselves, then everything we need will be provided for us. That’s absolute truth.
That’s why I’m not worried about the economy. My family is faithful to financially support the work of God, so God will be faithful to provide the resources my family needs. That’s absolute truth.
If we’re to truly live righteously, then there’s no place for “selfish” voting. It’s not about me. It’s not about you. It’s not even about us. It’s about what God’s Word says and holding fast to truth regardless of the perceived personal cost. What is God’s world view? What does He think is best?
What would happen in this election if we voted for Biblical principal before our personal preference? What if we chose our candidates based on character instead of personality? What if we determined our positions on ballots based on God’s heart instead of television advertisements?
Tuesday is coming. Let’s all choose to pray, listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit, and then cast our votes purposely. Not just as Americans, but most importantly, as people who believe that God’s absolute truth will always triumph over man’s wisdom. Our future, and the future of our nation, absolutely depends on it.