Today’s Political Elections Are Often Extremely Contentious Affairs. With polarization of social and political opinion and escalating contention surrounding elections, there is often a real chance of significant socio-political upheaval. And as election times approach, we are often under pressure as we contend with the state of the economy, rising crime, human and civil rights issues, today’s gender issues, America on the world stage and other social issues, which all can raise the tension of human discourse and lead to the possibility of high socio-economic unrest.
Also significant is the animosity that today often occurs between the opposing candidates and between the political parties they represent, along with a high level of division within each political party. Accusations of constitutional wrong doing, illegality and crime are often leveled at each other by both candidates and their parties. Today, voters in America can face a real tight-rope walk in deciding between the better of two candidates or the lesser of two evils.
Today Americans need real guidance in making political election decisions.
What Does God Have to Say About Elections? God who created all things and who knows everyone’s thoughts, speaks to us through his Word in the Bible. And what does God say about electing leaders? We may be voting (our responsibility as good citizens), but ultimately it is God, who created all things including all of us, who sets up leaders and deposes them. The Bible Book of Daniel (Ch. 2, Vs. 21) speaks of God’s control over our elections and provides advice to help you in making your election decision: “God removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those with understanding. He reveals deep and hidden things; he knows what lies in darkness.” And to help us make right decisions, the Book of James (Ch. 1, Vs. 5) says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” And Proverbs 2:6 tells us, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”
Ask God for wisdom in assessing all the facts so you can make an objective decision at election time. And it is God who controls all those he appoints as leaders, even if God’s decisions do not agree with our own. God’s will is always meant to result in ultimate good. What does God say about leaders he appoints?
Proverbs 21 says, “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water, he turns it wherever he wishes.” And Romans 13:1-2 warns, “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” The Book of Hebrews 13:17 also points out, “Obey your leaders
and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning.”
We are to respect the leaders whom God in his wisdom has rightly appointed over us. Each American citizen must search his or her heart in evaluating all they have learned to arrive at their vote for good leaders. And what makes God’s appointed leaders good leaders?
Proverbs 20:8 says, “Leaders who know their business and care, keep a sharp eye out for the shoddy and the cheap. Not only should leaders give their best, they also need to expect the best from their followers while helping them to do their best as they train and equip them.” Proverbs 28:2 affirms, “When there is moral rot within a nation, its government topples easily. But wise, knowledgeable leaders bring stability.”
Base your vote on an objective assessment of the best qualities of the candidates, not just on their faults. We the people of America must have confidence in our elected officials and pray to God for their unwavering leadership for the good. What does God say about praying for our elected officials?
1st Timothy 2:1-2 says, “I urge first of all that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all in authority, so we may live peaceful, quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
Pray: “Please God, grant us guidance as we make
our decisions in electing our leaders.”
Freedom Hill Community Church in Stow. Hear more of what God says Sunday mornings at 10am. All are welcome!
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