Tuesday, October 15, 2024

6 Issues to Consider in Your Vote for President



 “When it comes to voting, the most important piece of information is knowing a candidate’s position on the issues and what kind of policies they will potentially enact.”


When it comes to voting for the President of the United States what should be our guide? For some, it is simply about political party. They will vote down the ballot based on that alone. For others they are impacted by likeability, personality, communication and a candidate’s character. 
(Image by kp yamu Jayanath from Pixabay)

In truth, we are impacted by the whole package but knowing what a candidate will do once elected is vital. The most important piece of information is knowing a candidate’s position on the issues and what kind of legislation they will vote for, or policies they will enact. A winsome candidate can be a great communicator and very likeable but have dangerous policy positions. Someone running for office can also have questionable character, but a track record of legislation that benefited the country.

So what is our guide? Simple. Moral truth. Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life.” (John 14:6) And about the Bible itself, the Scripture says, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.” (2 Timothy 3:16) Jesus and His Word is the standard by which we judge what is moral legislation or policy that will honor God and be best for the nation.

Here are issues to consider, which comes from the help of Decision magazine.

Freedom of religion.
“’We strictly charged you not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you intend to bring this man's blood upon us.’ But Peter and the apostles answered, ‘We must obey God rather than men.’” (Acts 5:28-29) God tells us that believers in Christ are to speak of Him publicly, worship Him corporately and live for Him deliberately in all situations. Which candidate best protects a Christian’s right to live that way while running their own business, while at school, or while refusing to engage in certain things due to a violation of their conscience?

Free speech.
“And you shall speak my words to them, whether they hear or refuse to hear, for they are a rebellious house.” (Ezekiel 2:7) God teaches that Christians are to speak the truth, which sometimes means standing for what is right by exposing evil, while at other times it means proclaiming the good news of Christ to those who are in need of Him. Which candidate best protects the voices of truth, without censorship or reprisal?

Sanctity of human life.
“For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother's womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:13-14) God teaches that all humanity is made in His image, from the unborn baby, to the disabled, sick and elderly. Which candidate best protects individuals at all stages of life?

Education.
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight.” (Proverbs 9:10) God teaches that true knowledge begins with Him and includes the reading and study of His Holy Word. Which candidate best protects the rights of students and teachers to pray and speak of the Lord God? Which candidate allows students the freedom of choice to attend public or private school or homeschooling?

Border security.
“Peace be within your walls and security within your towers!” (Psalm 122:7) God teaches that a nation has an obligation to guard its borders in order to protect its citizens. Which candidate will best protect America’s borders?

Family and parental rights. “Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) God teaches that parents have the primary responsibility over their children. Which candidate will best recognize and protect the rights of parents in teaching their children and making moral decisions for them?

A prayer for you – Lord God, I pray for wisdom as voters they cast their ballots. Give them insight and knowledge in who best to vote for. Help them to sort through all the information and choose wisely. Lord God, put the person in office that will best carry out godly policies. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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