Do you remember what you were doing on Aug. 1 this year? For many Christians across the nation, it probably involved driving into town, waiting in a long line, and spending some of your money at your local Chick-fil-A. I applaud our brother Mike Huckabee and the millions of Americans who visited the restaurant chain to show support for their Christian values.
HendrickOn Nov. 6, Christians will be given another opportunity to exercise their beliefs. The good news is that the results will be far more rewarding than a good meal, it won’t cost you anything, and you don’t have to travel distances to do so: I’m talking about voting.
You have probably heard a number of activists, political pundits, and media outlets proclaim that this election is perhaps the most important in American history, but have you actually stopped to think about what God tells us is our biblical responsibility in regards to the election process?
Take, for instance, Exodus 18:21 that says, “But select capable men from all the people – men who fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain – and appoint them as officials over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens” (NIV). Furthermore, Deuteronomy 1:13 tells us, “Choose some wise, understanding, and respected men from each of your tribes, and I will set them over you” (NIV).
When we listen to news from around the globe, we hear of people groups that could only dream of an honor such as the right to vote. Many even live under the rule of tyrant leaders with no freedom of speech or worship whatsoever. We as Christians should first remember them in prayer, and, secondly, exercise our right to vote for men and women who will uphold our sacred religious liberties that so many have died defending.
While many people may be able to name the presidential candidates, there are a number of state and local offices that carry a great weight on social and moral issues. Pressing issues such as abortion, drug and alcohol regulations, and gambling were debated this legislative session and will undoubtedly be back next year. To find out more about your current representatives and how they have voted on these issues, feel free to contact the office of public policy.
It is estimated that only half of Christian voters will turn out to vote in any given election. To prepare yourself for everything you need to know about where to vote, absentee voting, what identification you need, and who will be on the ballot, you can visit www.scvotes.org, visit your local county election office, or contact the office of public policy at 1-800-723-7242.
Just as Jesus multiplied fish and loaves of bread to make a huge impact, so, too, will He multiply the efforts of Christians who turn out on Nov. 6 and cast their votes for godly men and women at all levels of public service.
– Hendrick is associate director of the office of public policy of the South Carolina Baptist Convention.