Some thoughts on voting
Rather late in the day, I thought I would share some thoughts on the election tomorrow, and particularly, on how to vote.
I find myself confused about a lot of the issues (I’m sure I’m not alone), and frustrated that no one party ticks all my boxes.
But anyway….
Why vote?
I found this from Dr. Krish Kandiah really helpful….
His “Ten Reasons Why Christians Should Vote”
1. Voting publicly recognises that we submit to the authority of the political system in our nation as established by God. (Romans 13:1-7)
2. Voting recognises the equality of all people and their right to speak and be heard. (Deuteronomy 10:17-19)
3. It is one way that we can obey God's command to seek the good of those around us and our nation as a whole. (Jeremiah 29:5-6)
4. It shows that we care deeply about who our leaders are as we are urged to offer prayer and intercession on their behalf. (1 Timothy 2:1,2)
5. It is a simple yet significant way we can do something about politics in our nation. 'All that is required for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing', Edmund Burke. (Psalms 34:14)
6. It makes a difference the way a grain of salt makes a difference, and that is how we are to influence our society for good. (Matthew 5:13)
7. It is a privilege not to be taken for granted. Those of us who reap the benefits of living in a democracy should play a part in upholding democracy.
8. Not voting is a form of voting, as it will influence the outcome. We need to take responsibility for our actions, as well as our lack of actions. (Luke 10:25-37)
9. Voting has biblical precedence for example Acts 14:23 describes that the early Christians elected elders by voting.
10. Voting is part of our stewardship to use all the resources we have been given in ways that honour God; to waste a vote is to squander a gift.
And How to Vote
Nope, I’m not going to tell you how to vote…that’s for you to decide. But I offer 3 principles to bring to bear as you make up your mind.
ONE: Vote prayerfully
Not only does the bible tell us to pray for our leaders (1 Tim. 2:1-2), but it’s as we prayerfully consider issues that God will illuminate our hearts and minds. James 1:5 says that if “any one lacks wisdom, he should ask God, and it will be given to you.” Invite God into your thinking and ask Him to guide you…vote prayerfully.
TWO: Vote thoughtfully
Consider the issues. We might not have time to read all the manifestos, but we can all take a moment to look at a manifesto comparison site (one example is this one: https://www.instituteforgovernment.org.uk/manifesto-tracker) – vote thoughtfully.
THREE: Vote as a follower of Jesus
As followers of Jesus we are called to “love God and to love others”. For me, one of the things that means is not asking ‘what is best for me?’ but rather asking, ‘what is best for our country?’ i.e. trying to think collectively rather than selfishly. I realise that even in asking that question, Christians will come up with differing opinions, but at least ask it! Or, if as Christians we want the lives of everyone to flourish, what might that look like in how I vote? Or, what matters to Jesus? Or, what will bring about most good? Again, I realise Christians will differ in how they answer these questions, but at least ask them…vote as a follower of Jesus.