1. Vote--"'Well then,' he said, 'give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.'” (Luke 20:25 NLT). While this Scripture is referring directly to taxes, it also applies to our vote, which is our contribution to our governing. Voting is not just a right and a priviledge; it is our duty as citizens to exercise our part in the process…to "hold up our end if the deal." We are a Republic, and our votes, both for officials and on law changes, is how we express our needs and desires. It is the "You're hired" call to new officials, the satisfactory review to those serving, and the "pink slip" to those not doing their jobs. Whichever party you prefer, get out and vote!
2. Pray--Whether your candidates win or not, pray for your leaders. Despite your feelings for them, they are the persons elected to make decisions on your behalf, so pray they are making the "right" ones--the safe ones, ones with our best interests in mind, ones that embrace freedom and build up our nation. "Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God." (Romans 13:1 NLT)
3. Show Respect--"Respect everyone, and love your Christian brothers and sisters. Fear God, and respect the king." (1 Peter 2:17 NLT) Few things are sadder than folks professing to follow Jesus disrespect, belittle, and degrade each other for having different opinions. Nasty accusations, insults, and bullying show a lack of respect, desperation, and inability to cope with something different, none of which speaks well of anyone, especially those who claim to follow Jesus, the embodiment of love, respect, and the Great Commission. You don't have to like your leaders, you don't have to agree with everyone. People often say "Respect is earned," and they are right in that full authoritative respect, the brand of respect that brings influence, is earned, but basic human respect should be given freely. Make the choice to do so.
Vote. Pray. Respect.
Lord, bless us this day, watch over us as we in the US cast our votes today to choose our next leaders. Be with us and protect us in the days to come, no matter the outcome. Amen.
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