Tomorrow is Election Day. Voters will flood the booths to nominate the 46th President of the United States. While there are various third-party candidates, most will vote for either President Donald Trump or Joe Biden.
Many feel obligated to vote. They view it as their duty and a way to directly influence our government. This sense of obligation holds sway over many Christians as well. But are we required to vote? Is it something we must do?
Should I Vote?
Some say voting is our “civic and Christian duty.” In other words, we are obligated to vote as citizens of America and believers in Jesus Christ. But voting is not a duty; it is a right. And rights may be exercised at our discretion. Nothing in the law requires us to vote.
Nothing in the Bible requires us to vote either. The Bible commands us to pay taxes (Matthew 21:21; Romans 13:6), submit to the government (Romans 13:1; 1 Peter 2:13) and pray for government officials (1 Timothy 2:1-2). But it never tells us to vote or be involved in political activities.
Voting gives us a small measure of influence. But ultimately, it does nothing to improve the moral and spiritual climate of our country. If you truly want to “keep America great,” devote yourself to holiness. Be the “salt” and “light” Jesus expects you to be (Matthew 5:13-16).
A single act of obedience to Jesus is far more powerful than a single vote.
How Should I Vote?
As Christians and citizens, voting is our choice. You may vote or not at your own discretion. And you should not let anyone pressure you to vote or not. If it seems good and your conscience allows it, vote; if not, don’t. If you choose to vote, keep these suggestions in mind:
First, consider all the issues. Many Christians consider only two issues: abortion and gay marriage. This is foolish because neither of these issues is going away. It is also foolish because there are many other issues facing our country. Your vote should be based on a consideration of all the relevant issues, not just these two.
Second, promote the gospel. Many vote in order to advance their personal kingdoms. As Christians, we must vote to advance the kingdom of God. Which candidate’s platform is most conducive to promoting the gospel? It could be someone who promotes Christian values. Or it could be someone who is so unlike Jesus that our country realizes their need for Him.
Third, don’t put your hope in worldly politicians. In every election, America seeks a Savior – someone to solve our problems, defeat our enemies and procure our happiness. It is foolish to hope in worldly politicians. The only One who can truly, permanently improve our country is He who rules at the right hand of God – King Jesus.
Why I Don’t Vote
During each election, I choose not to vote. One reason is my conscience won’t allow it. I’m not informed enough about the candidates or their platforms to endorse any of them in good conscience. It seems impossible to find information that is objective and unbiased.
Another reason is my convictions don’t require it. I will submit to the next President no matter who they are. And I pledge allegiance to another kingdom, a heavenly one that cannot be shaken by worldly affairs. I will fight for the expansion of that kingdom no matter what the political situation might be.
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Zack Donaldson 
Thanks Zack for posting. Lots of good points!
Good points – but you don’t vote? Really, what about local elections and school issues, etc.? Sorry, but not voting and studying the issues is a “cop-out”. I fought for “our country” to guarantee that all can vote for our future.
No, I don’t. I appreciate having the right to vote. And I appreciate you fighting for it. There are just other rights that mean more to me, like freedom of speech and freedom of religion. And there are other ways to produce change that seem more effective than voting. I’m not against it, nor am I saying I’ll never vote again. But I am choosing not to in this election.
Fair enough – this election is an aberration and devisive but remember, the freedom of speech and religion are in the Constitution and we don’t want to have that taken away through Socialism mandates. As Churchill said – “socialism is the philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance and the gospel of envy. We are a blessed Nation! God bless America.