God’s Presidential Voting Guide

James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

As this blog is primarily about my daily walk with God, I am rarely going to write about politics. However, I have recently spent some time thinking about the current candidates and have even made the occasional inflammatory criticism. So, when I read today’s passage, it seemed to be providing me with some perspective on the subject.

I have seen friends, family and coworkers participate in bitter, hurtful exchanges due to passionate feelings about this year’s candidates. I may have even said some hurtful, critical things myself, suggesting that one’s support of a candidate may be the political equivalent of selling one’s soul.

Increasing the intensity of this polarizing election is the background of a world that appears to be on fire. Black Lives Matter, ISIS, immigration, health care, economic and environmental concerns all demonstrate how much of a mess the world truly is. We are in trouble. Who can save us? Who can bring about good and who can fix this mess?

James’ words today, reminded me that the good in my life does not come from man. God may use people, but it is He, who ultimately is in control. In a world of shadow and chaos, He is the unchanging light that pierces the darkness. The one who was present at the creation of the world is present in my life today, unchanged since the beginning of time. In a world of terrifying conflict and upheaval, He is the only constant that I can rely on.

Just as in Jesus’ time, it is tempting to hope that one man or woman can bring about a political revolution that will deliver God’s kingdom here on Earth. Jesus’ contemporaries expected him to be that leader who would deliver the kingdom of God. Politics however, will never bring about God’s kingdom. Jesus changed one life at a time and had little use for political power.

I am not advocating political apathy. In a democracy, it is my duty to vote. I can and should vote my conscious. I should however keep my perspective on the subject. Only God holds the world in his hands. The bible has much less to say about politics and our leaders than it does about my relationship with the living God.

I actually have no idea for whom you should vote. I do know that my relationship with God is far more important than my relationship with any politician. I know that I have an intimate bond with the God who is in ultimate control. I know that a passion for loving God and loving those around me will have a far more important effect on the lives of those around me than who I vote for. My relationship with Trump or Clinton means very little in the eyes of eternity.

If I want to be involved in authentic change in the world around me, I should pour my passion into my love for God and for those around me. I can and should vote, but I should keep my faith and focus on the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow…