I recently read an article by John Piper entitled, "Christian, You Are Free Not to Vote."
It's true. There is no biblical mandate that says we must vote and, in Christ, we are free from the "inherent authority of human institutions" to follow Him above all.
So why do I think that we should vote?
1. We are part of the governmental process.
We are a nation, as described by Abraham Lincoln, of the people, by the people, for the people. It is a unique system of government in the history of the world. We are not ruled by kings but rather by a Constitution that gives us a part in the governmental process.
We may not want it, appreciate it, or even like it. But we have been given a voice, an active role, a vote in the direction of the nation, and it would seem to be an abdication of responsibility to neglect it or run from it when the choices get difficult.
In some sense, we are like a Joseph, Daniel, Nehemiah, or Esther, given a part in a secular government. If this is a valid comparison (which I think it is), then like Joseph we should seek to use our ability to preserve life (Gen. 45:5), like Daniel we should seek to speak boldly and compassionately despite the consequences (Dan.4:27), like Nehemiah we should pray for opportunity to protect and provide for God's people (Neh. 1:11; 2:7-8), and like Esther we should use whatever influence and voice we have to hinder the spread of evil (Esther 5:14).
It is only one vote…but it is our voice.
2. We understand the impact of government.
In 1 Timothy 2:1-4, Paul urges prayer for all people, with a special focus on governmental leaders.
Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
The decisions of governmental leaders affect many lives in the nation and in the church. That is why Paul urged prayer for those in authority. Our prayer is that governmental leaders would rule wisely and justly, come to know Christ as Savior, and provide and protect religious liberty, allowing us to lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.
Certainly if we are to pray for religious liberty, we should also use whatever influence we have within government (e.g., a vote) to preserve it as well.
3. We have been given a great privilege through the sacrifice of others.
For those of us who have grown up in America, we certainly take our freedoms and system of government for granted. In fact, we spend much of our time complaining about it! But our freedom and our ability to vote came with great cost and therefore it should be appreciated.
The apostle Paul was privileged to be a Roman citizen. Though he remembered that his ultimate citizenship was in heaven (Philippians 3:20), Paul also used the rights of his Roman citizenship to call out injustice (Acts 16:37), to protect himself from unlawful punishment (Acts 22:25), and to seek a fair trial (Acts 25:11). Paul did not abuse his citizenship for personal gain, rather he used it strategically, when he was able, for the purpose of justice, protection, and the advancement of the gospel.
As citizens of America, we should thank God for the privileges we have and pray that we would use them wisely and strategically for His glory and our good as a nation.
But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare (Jeremiah 29:7).
Even if you are struggling with your vote for president, there are numerous other national, state, and local races that have tremendous impact on people in our nation.
As people with a great privilege and a great responsibility, we should care enough to pray, care enough to be informed, and care enough to vote.
