While this is not a political post to sway you in any way, it is good to prepare yourself before an election. Why do you vote the way you do? There are many factors that play into what you deem important. It would be wise to list out what is important to you, then rank them in order of importance.
Keep your priorities in mind as you read on. In the Old Testament, God appointed David as King of His people. After fighting a lot of wars and conquering the enemy, David’s reign came to an end and his son, Solomon, was appointed (by God) to reign as the next king. David left his son a peaceful land to rule over. You can read 1 and 2 Samuel to read about the battles that David endured as he received victory after victory.
Let’s focus on Solomon and how he handled his affairs. The first few chapters of 1 Kings show how God established Solomon’s early reign. In 1 Kings 3:1-15, you read how Solomon had a good heart, but he wasn’t quite focused on the right thing yet. God needed to redirect his ways so He can bless Solomon like he did David.
Having the privilege to vote for who will reign in authority is a blessing that should not be handled vicariously.
God met Solomon in a dream. “What do you want Solomon?”5 Notice Solomon’s response to God, he admits his inadequacy in this role that God has placed him in. He then answers what his heart is desiring. He wants an understanding heart so he can govern people well and to know the difference between right and wrong; see verse 9.
Solomon did not request things for himself. His heart was for the nation as a whole to flourish, and this pleased the Lord. Solomon could have requested a long life, wealth or revenge of his enemies even, but he didn’t. What did God offer him; look at verses 12-14.
God blesses right priorities.
When Solomon woke up, he returned to Jerusalem, stood before the Ark of the Lord’s Covenant and followed the Lord’s ways more closely. God redirected his heart to focus on the right thing. Solomon placed the good of the people above his personal peace and prosperity and the power that he held as king. His values were in the right place.
In this election season, God is calling you to do the right thing and vote accordingly to what is best for the country as a whole. Voting is not about me, myself, and I. It never has been. Voting is exercising your voice for the better of the country. The United States has been blessed for 248 years because people from all cultures have lived with a common thread. This common thread is now in jeopardy. A nation cannot exist when over 326 million people become focused on the wrong reasons.
Now, take your priority list and does anything need to get realigned? What makes a nation prosper? What values does it need to flourish. Take some time and process what is important for our society as a whole, and vote accordingly. God loves to give good things to His children, but He can’t when everyone is focused on their own lives more.
Think about these truths that affect people’s lives: What are the 7 things that God hates in Proverbs 6:16-19? James 3:16 says, “For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind.” Watch out for those who serve their own personal interest; read Romans 16:17-18.
Voting for the right reason matters. Do your part, and I will do mine, and the Lord will appoint people according to His will. His plan of redemption is taking place as we speak and you and I can trust God that He knows what He is doing no matter who wins in November.
Carol J German 