When my son was around 15, we studied the election process. As with many subjects in homeschool, I completely enjoyed myself and we had some good discussions. One of them happened to be about how to choose who you will vote for. My son came up with the witty phrase, I’m a Biblican and in fact, he still is to this day. Since tonight is the presidential debate here in the United States, I thought it would be a great time to talk about elections and why I’m a Biblican instead of a Republican or a Democrat.
What is a Biblican you might ask?
A Biblican is a person who does his or her best to search the Scriptures to find out what God says on a particular issue. This is, however, a sometimes difficult thing to do. It takes time, knowledge of the Bible, and a determination to vote your conscience. It will also take a concerted effort to drown out the political voices of the day. This is important. As Christians, we believe God’s Word is truth and is sufficient to guide us through anything we encounter. We may be deficient on our own but with Jesus, He is enough. God is not outdated, morality does not change or evolve. Christian doctrine is NEVER to be determined by the culture.
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. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4
Elections – I’m A Biblican
Why vote?
As Christians, we are called to love others. We vote because not doing so is unloving. If we do not vote, we forfeit our ability to be the hands and feet of Christ on the issues of our day. Another important issue is the fact that many men and women in our military died for this right. When we don’t vote we diminish their sacrifice.
Does the character and integrity of a candidate matter?
Yes, it most certainly does matter.
- Proverbs 11:3 – The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.
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1 Peter 3:16 – Keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.
- Proverbs 12:22 – The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.
What should you do if neither candidate is of good character?
Let’s be honest this is a huge problem in America right now as well as in elections around the world. To be clear, we are talking about integrity as depicted in the Bible. God’s infallible Word is our guideline. When neither candidate has good moral character you must vote strictly on the issues according to a Christian Worldview. This is admittedly a gamble for without trustworthiness you cannot know if the candidate will keep his or her promise.
Is looking into an elected official’s past voting records possible?
Yes, it is time-consuming but you can look into elected officials voting records to see if they kept their campaign promises. This is more important to do this than ever. Here is some help…https://www.senate.gov/legislative/HowTo/how_to_votes.htm While you are doing research, why not research which groups and businesses are giving money to the candidate? This can be difficult as you will need to keep looking deeper and deeper but follow the money and the truth will eventually be revealed!
Are protest votes possible?
Yes, they most certainly are. First, we must answer the question of what a protest vote is. A protest vote is when you write in a person’s name instead of voting for the candidates who are officially running for office. Many people view them as a waste of your vote, and they are correct in one sense. However, if after much prayer and Bible study you feel that either candidate does not represent your values and beliefs then it is permissible to write in the name of a person who does represent your views.
How do I apply the commandment to love my neighbor when I vote?
Firstly, you need to have a relationship with your neighbor. Have conversations and ask their opinions. Find out how they are doing and what their personal needs are. Help to meet them if you can. Share the love of Christ which is possible in many varied ways. Pray for them. Voting for issues on a ballot is where this area comes into play. For example, I don’t ideologically support the school system. I homeschool my children. However, I have always voted for funding for our town’s public schools because I value children, and children need an education, a safe place to learn, and relationships with teachers. Voting for library and Fire/EMS levies would also be in this category.
Mark 12:30-31 – And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.’ The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.”
How do I make an informed decision?
Firstly, start with what issues are important to you and see what the Bible says about them. Prayer is a necessity when determining whom to vote for, I would suggest silent prayer where you have a listening attitude. Once you have determined the truth of what God declares, you can make a simple pros and cons chart for each candidate or use a voter guide.
Proverbs 3:5-8 – Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.
YOUR TURN…
What are some issues that Christians need to consider when voting?
Peacefully Yours,
Janelle
