How You Should VOTE!

"Pastors aren't supposed to tell people how to vote!" So we hear from various sources. But the Bible is clear that God-called servants must help people know how to make wise, godly decisions; so here's a 'formula' I believe the Lord gave me to help anyone who's interested. Here's how to vote:

First, pray the NEWS. As the election coverage intensifies, give prayerful attention to what's being said and shown. Don't listen/watch with your mind 'in neutral!' The Networks and CNN will tell you what's left after they filter the news, and Fox and other conservative news outlets will tell you the right side as they see it; the most reliable source is God's Spirit. Ask Him to show you what's really happening in the global, national, local, and 'social' news (be aware and beware of all those opinions out there!). Also, hear the CLUES. Take heed to what the media are saying between the lines. Ask yourself, "What subtle messages ares being sent, what interpretations are being given in these news reports? How are they trying to change me?"

Second, search for TRUTHS. The Platforms of both Presidential candidates and their parties are available online. READ them! Open the Bible and compare what GOD says and what those PLATFORMS say. Each Platform is a statement of what that President and Vice-President and their party plan to accomplish during their term. Check out the facts, and be like the men of Issachar! (You can read about them in 1 Chronicles 12:32.)

Number three, express your VIEWS. I've heard it said that "two things we shouldn't talk about are religion and politics." Well, I say those are two things we SHOULD talk about! Our conversations need to include our convictions about this all-important election. D.L. Moody (the Billy Graham of his day), was being criticized in his hometown of Chicago for taking a stand and speaking out on a current local issue; his critics said Moody should stick with 'heavenly' matters. His reply was, "I AM a citizen of Heaven, but I VOTE in Cook County, Illinois!" May Mr. Moody's tribe increase!

Fourth, pay your DUES. Jesus and Paul taught us that Christ-followers are to "render" to their government what is 'due' (Mark 12:17 and Romans 13:7). In my opinion that means pay our taxes when they're due AND cast our votes during elections!

Finally, re-light your FUSE. After the election is over, what should you do? (If this one ever reaches a conclusion!) Whoever our President is when the smoke finally clears, I believe Hebrews 13:16-17 should be our plan of action: "Therefore by Him (Jesus) let us CONTINUALLY offer the sacrifice of praise...But do not FORGET to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. OBEY those who rule over you, and BE SUBMISSIVE, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give an account..." Whoever the POTUS is in 2021, here's my plea: 1) Re-light your fuse as a CHRISTIAN, offering continual praise to our Lord Jesus Christ. 2) Re-light your fuse as a CITIZEN, respecting the elected leaders and personally being glad that there's an "I" in AMERICA!

So fellow believer, I urge you to SHOW UP and cast your ballot (whether you're mailing it in, voting early, or going to your polling place on November 3)...STAND UP for faith and family and freedom...and SPEAK UP regarding your Biblical convictions. THAT, as I see it, is 'how' you ought to VOTE!