VOTE FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS

In America we have the great blessing of freedom. Christians can obey the scriptures that require them to be obedient to government (Romans 13), and still be able to express their views of that government through freedom of speech, and their vote. This is a privilege for which we should be thankful to God.

With every blessing comes responsibility. The right to choose our government leaders is a blessing, but more than party lines in casting his/her vote must guide the Christian. The Christian must cast a vote for leaders who have righteous principles as their guide. "Like a muddied spring or a polluted well is a righteous man who gives way to the wicked" (Proverbs 25:26). The Christian cannot ignore positions taken by those who will guide our nation that are obviously unscriptural, therefore unrighteous. " Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray. He who does what is right is righteous, just as he is righteous. He who does what is sinful is of the devil, because the devil has been sinning from the beginning. The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the devil's work" (I John 3:7,8).

We will all have varying thoughts on many subjects promoted by those seeking public office. Our opinions will differ on the economy, education, and many other subjects. The scriptures do not speak on many such things, therefore, we each may support what we think is best. However, we should seek God's guidance, through prayer, for out leaders in these decisions as Paul instructed 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" (I Timothy 2:1,2).

Many ideas are set forth by our leaders, or those seeking these positions, on which God has spoken. When God has spoken no amount of political thought may change what He has said. It is in these cases that the Christian must choose God over man (Acts 5:29). We cannot choose unrighteousness over righteousness. "For it is not those who hear the law who are righteous in God's sight, but it is those who obey the law who will be declared righteous" (Romans 2:13). We cannot play politics with God and win. Those seeking political office often take positions that are politically correct, but not scriptural. The consequence is a nation, which grows more immoral daily. Thousands of children are murdered by abortion, divorce abounds, drugs are everywhere, homosexuality continues to be advocated openly as a lifestyle, Aids kills thousands, lotteries (gambling) are encouraged as a source of income, courts limit our right to pray, same sex marriage is ruled acceptable, sinners think they're going to heaven, and most think that our nation is invulnerable.

Christians must take a stand for righteousness, and against liberal, and in many cases immoral positions of our leaders. "Righteousness exalteth a nation; but sin is a reproach to any people" (Proverbs 13:34). God is not pleased with those who compromise with evil. "Like a muddied spring or a polluted well is a righteous man who gives way to the wicked"(Proverbs 25:26). Israel and Judah did not have the privilege of voting out their evil kings, judges and chief priest, and their nation fell. We have a great blessing in the right to vote against evil. Our nation does not have to fall, nor do we have to allow evil men to remain in office. It is well past time for Christians to stand up and say enough. In a few days Christians will have the privilege to cast their vote for those who will lead us. If we want to save our nation our vote must be cast against those who support evil, and for those who support righteousness.

Jack Glover
10/18/2004