(Available to download as a FREE handout.)
“There is no authority except from God.” Romans 13:1 (read also Romans 13:1–7)
Election day is upon us. I hope you will vote. It’s proper for Christian citizens to exercise the rights of citizenship (as Paul did in Acts 16:37– 39; 21:39; 22:25–29; 25:10–11). So vote! And vote in a Christian manner. What should you be thinking when you pull the curtain on your booth?
Christians should vote with thanksgiving.
Think of how few people throughout human history have had the right to influence their government with their vote. We’re not under the boot of a dictator. We’re not inheriting a king who has inherited his throne. We’re not in the middle of a civil war. We’re voting. What a great blessing God has given us to live in such a country at such a time! As you vote, offer a prayer of thanksgiving to the Giver of this gift (James 1:17).
Christians should vote for righteousness.
Scripture doesn’t contain the names of candidates or parties. But it does tell us what our leaders are supposed to do:
- Protect the innocent and punish the guilty (1 Peter 2:14; Romans 13:3–4)
- Lead in a way that shows the fear of God, guards the peace of citizens, and allows the advance of the gospel (1 Timothy 2:1–4)
- Pursue righteousness, not wickedness (Proverbs 14:34)
Christians should pray for our leaders (1 Timothy 2:1) and submit to our leaders (Romans 13:1–7; 1 Peter 2:13–17). In America, we should also help choose our leaders. As we do, we should prioritize issues on which the Bible speaks with clarity (such as the sanctity of life and the definition of marriage).
Christians should vote in faith.
Tensions are high. People will stay up late to see which states go “blue” or “red” and who gets 270 electoral votes. As Christians, we must watch in faith, without anxiety, knowing that whoever rules in Washington, there is a Greater who rules in heaven. The future of our country will be affected by this election, but not the future of the church or of God’s Kingdom. In the words of one of my favorite hymns, “There is a Higher Throne.” So vote. Then rest in the sovereignty and goodness of the only perfect Ruler. He ordains our leaders (Romans 13:1). He controls our leaders (Proverbs 21:1). And He will one day replace our leaders (Revelation 11:15). Hallelujah! “Come, Lord Jesus.”
Let the gospel dominate your approach to politics.
(This article is also available as a downloadable handout, written with the feel of one of our Gospel Meditations devotionals and formatted for half-page printing. This handout is free to download and duplicate, but please don’t alter it in any way. Grace!)
