How Should I Vote?

In the upcoming elections, Christians will form a large and influential voting block. However, within that voting block, there is polarity – hence the question, how should one vote?

The recently concluded party conventions may have provided little help in answering the question. The half-truths, exaggerations and priorities of our politicians have left us with another challenge – integrity. To whom should Christians go when trust is so scarce?

There are several passages in the Bible which confirm that God is interested in the process of governing. He is concerned with the form, organization and administration of people. In essence, God cares about our politics.

In Jeremiah’s letter to the Jews that were taken to Babylon, the Lord said, “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper” (Jeremiah 29:7).  

The Apostle Paul took a similar line in his letter to Timothy: “I urge then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Timothy 2:1-3).

God’s interest is further evident in references to ungodly regimes as “servants of God.” In exercising His sovereignty, God demands that politicians put systems in place that would ensure care for the poor, justice and protection for the less fortunate. Romans 13:1 strongly suggests that the system of government is ordained by God with the view of reflecting the will of God.

Psalm 72 is a prayer. It expresses the desire of the nation of Israel that their king’s reign will be characterized by justice and righteousness. These were viewed as supreme virtues of national leadership. The matters raised in the prayer clearly identify items that should exemplify our own political leaders.

PROVIDE JUSTICE (vv. 1-2) “… endow the king with your justice…so that he will judge Your people in righteousness, Your afflicted ones with justice.” This is a clear appeal for fair dealing and honesty in every area of leadership.”

PRACTICE FAITH (vv. 7, 15) “In his days the righteous will flourish…may people ever pray for him and bless him all day long.” Leaders should participate in corporate worship, recognizing its benefit for both individuals and the spirit of community.

ENSURE PROSPERITY (V.7, 16) “In his days…prosperity will abound till the moon is no more…Let grain abound throughout the land; on the tops of the hills may it sway. Let its fruit flourish like Lebanon; let it thrive like the grass of the field.” There is nothing wrong with prosperity that is gained honorably. It ought to be encouraged.

CARE FOR THE LESS FORTUNATE (v.4) “He will defend the afflicted among the people and save the children of the needy…” No one should be allowed to assume national leadership if he/she is insensitive to the needs of the less fortunate.

PROVIDE SECURITY (vv. 4, 9) “He will crush the oppressor…his enemies will lick the dust.” Crime deterrence and national security should also be prominent in every political policy.

RESPECT IN FOREIGN AFFAIRS (vv. 8-11) “All kings will bow down to him and all nations will serve him.” A leader’s reputation should earn global respect.

GOVERN WITH HONOR (v.17) “May his name endure forever; may it continue as long as the sun. All nations will be blessed through him, and they will call him blessed” Be a model of honorable governance. People will talk, but when they do, they ought to be able to say honorable things of anyone in leadership.

Without referring to Psalm 72, I believe all politicians would want to believe that they uphold all of the above. However, because of our system of government, we have the privilege of holding our leaders accountable. We can do this honorably by encouraging civil debate among opposing candidates. In addition, we must use every legitimate means to demand the items listed in Psalm 72.

In November we will have another opportunity to speak with the ballot box. One’s freedom to vote is a liberty rooted in our Christian heritage. In many countries, citizens are deprived from voting and when allowed, are subjected to rigged systems.

Despite the few attempts to undermine fair voting practices in America, we can be thankful that generally, we can vote fairly and without fear. Edmund Burke, the 18th century British statesman was correct when he said, “all that is necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” PLEASE VOTE!