Pastor Steve's thoughts

It’s the political season again. The presidential candidates are debating like ducks and beavers over football. States like Iowa and New Hampshire have been invaded by outsiders trying to catch prisoners for their cause. Campaigning for office has become a full time endeavor instead of a seasonal occupation. Quite frankly I’m already tired of it.

As the presidential race heats up and the primaries come to Oregon, all of us will be faced with some decisions. Who should I vote for? How can a Christian decide? What parameters should be used? Some people wonder if Christians even be involved in voting.

The New Testament was written in the 1st century when no one voted. Therefore the biblical writers did not directly comment on issues of voting. The more relevant verses have to do with obeying governmental authority. Romans 13:1-7 teaches us to obey authority because God has ordained them. That’s why Paul tells us to pay our taxes in verse 6 and to be careful to comply with the law. Paul explains that the authorities have the right to punish those who do wrong. Therefore, obey the law to avoid the consequences and to keep your conscience clear. I find it ironic that Paul is in jail for causing a riot in Jerusalem at this time!

Paul wrote to Timothy, “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” (1 Tim. 2:1-2) A clear responsibility for Christians is to pray for those in authority. In the next two verses, Paul explains that God desires all people to know the Savior. This would include elected officials and government leaders.

I must have been 10 years old when my father took me with him to the voting booth. In those days, a voter would pull the curtain and fill out a paper ballot or flip the levers on a machine. My father took some time in the voting booth to explain how things worked. He described the candidates running for president and then voted. Perhaps you can take time to fill out your ballot with your kids. Let them see your reasoning and above all let them see you pray about your decisions. That might be more important than your vote.