Is it still good to vote?

When it comes to candidates, many Christians are wondering if it is a good thing to vote anymore.

Depending on the article, several are suggesting that 30-45 million Christians in the U.S.A. are choosing not to vote this time around.

Generally, what non-voting Christians are saying is that they don't like the options at the ballot box.

As we consider the Book of Romans, we find a timely application from chapter 13.

Let's take a look at the first four verses:

Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God. 2 Whosoever therefore resisteth the power, resisteth the ordinance of God: and they that resist shall receive to themselves damnation. 3 For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to the evil. Wilt thou then not be afraid of the power? do that which is good, and thou shalt have praise of the same: 4 For he is the minister of God to thee for good. But if thou do that which is evil, be afraid; for he beareth not the sword in vain: for he is the minister of God, a revenger to execute wrath upon him that doeth evil.

Paul is making it very clear that followers of Christ should also follow those who are in leadership--not just church authority, but, specifically, those in governmental positions of authority.

The reason it is good to do so is because those who serve and rule in governmental positions are ordained by God to bring order to society.

When we have a proper fear and respect of governmental authority it is a good thing.

What we observe is that many of our leaders are not living or ruling in such a way that we would like, especially when compared to God's expectations and guidelines.

In Paul's day, the Roman Emperor was Nero. You may remember from history class that Nero was far from holy, yet God still had Paul write these verses.

In this way, then, God encourages us to honor civil authorities even in cases where their motives and morals do not match Christian truth.

It is only in cases where God's Law and Word directs us to do something different that we should not adhere to human law.

Then Peter and the other apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. (Acts 5:29)

And even when God directs us to do something different, we are still to honor those in authority when they punish for doing so.

When it comes to voting, the truth is that until Christ comes to rule and reign, there never will be a candidate with which you will agree on every issue. And as candidates and politicians face issues and (hopefully) mature, their perspectives and positions will change.

However, when it comes to the issues at stake in the place where you live, that is, then, the bigger issue when it comes to voting.

Paul has shared that we are are to be subject to higher powers. In America, we have a choice to help decide what we will be subject to as we vote for those higher powers.

Every vote is for more than just for a candidate. Each candidate has a personality, but we know from history that personality and likeability are not why we should vote for someone.

Every time you vote for a candidate, you are voting for their policies and the principles that guide them. As you consider your vote, consider carefully which set of policies best align with God's Word.

There are major issues and minor issues.

As an example, life is a major issue. A candidate who would protect this basic right by conservatively opposing abortion, assisted suicide, and euthanasia is desirable.

There are lots of other matters and policies to consider when electing presidential candidates compared to a local official who may reasonably oversee a smaller domain, such as water drainage or an animal shelter.

I like something I read recently that encourages voters to treat an election more like a game of chess than a one-time event. Think of it this way: which candidates for office or items on the ballot will move us closer or keep us closer to Biblical principles and morals?

In light of what Paul writes, it appears that given the opportunity to vote for those whom we will soon subject ourselves after the election, we should participate. We really do not have a good excuse to not vote.

To not vote, or not in favor of righteousness, gives the vote to others who are more than willing to advance evil. It was through voting (and other miraculous factors) that America has been able to overturn several blights on our nation, such as abortion. Remember that voting still matters.

As a follower of Christ, I am often saddened by what I see happening in our halls of government and to observe how our country has moved away from the Biblical principles that America was founded upon. And when given the opportunity to have a say in how things go, I want my voice to be heard by my vote, so I can encourage true life, liberty, and happiness to shine in this land as long as I can.

And can I take this post one step further? We have other obligations to those who rule over us. It's easy to complain and chop them up on social media. Let's be a part of the conversation with those who lead us--in every area of life. I have found it trying at times but also rewarding to connect and communicate with several leaders. The fact is that as they step into their areas of leadership, it is an odd place, because it is loud with pleas and attention but often quiet from true friends and guides. Let them know you are praying for them and that you care about the issues for which they are debating and fighting.

If there is one fear that I have is that if we stop voting, we are also giving away our voice to speak to those elected to serve our families and communities, and that does not sound in any way like we are willing to subject ourselves to them in a Biblical fashion.

Get out and vote, and be a part of the process--even though the candidates are far from perfect. (None of us are!)

To conclude, and I mean this seriously, if God directs you and you believe you can do a better job in that position, I encourage you to run for office next time! Who knows, I might even vote for you!