How Should a Christian Vote?

Voting is a privilege that each of us gets to exercise in this great democracy. But it’s critical that we cast an informed vote. Here are six tips to remember before entering the voting booth.

First, remember that no one enters the voting booth alone.

As Christians, we should ask, “If Jesus were voting in this election, how would He vote?” We should seek to vote how we can best envision Jesus voting. It adds a little weight to our vote if we can remember that Jesus goes into the booth with us. He said, “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). As an ever-present Savior, Jesus is aware of the decisions we make. Our aim should be to represent His values to the best of our ability. We shouldn’t leave our Christianity outside the voting booth.

Second, remember that no matter who rules the earth, God still rules the universe.

This principle is so encouraging because it reminds us that ultimately God is still in control. Proverbs 21:1 says, “The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will.” We can take comfort knowing that God will accomplish His purposes on earth regardless of who’s in office. God will not be caught by surprise on voting day, and He certainly will not throw His hands up in the air in defeat. Therefore, we don’t need to be alarmists, but we can rest in God’s sovereign plans. No matter how bad things get, we can say with confidence, “Our God reigns.”

Third, remember to vote on principles over personality.

Principles trump personality. The election isn’t a personality contest. It’s more like a principle contest. Our voting motto could be, “He who has the best principles wins.” As followers of Christ, we should vote for the person whose values best reflect our biblical worldview. Our vote should be biblically measured.

Fourth, remember to enter the voting booth prayerfully and to pray for your leaders continuously.

Paul the apostle instructed young Timothy by writing, “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior” (1 Timothy 2:1-3). These verses are loaded with application. In three short verses we learn that God wants us praying for our leaders, that our prayers are effective, that praying helps us live “peaceful and quiet” lives, and most importantly, that praying for our leaders pleases “God our Savior.”

Fifth, study your local voters’ guide so you are fully informed on the issues and the candidates.

It’s easy to vote a straight ticket, but it may not be the best option. It takes a little extra effort, but it’s wise to grab a voters’ guide in order to cast a more informed vote.

Last, remember joyfully that there’s coming a day when Jesus will set up His kingdom and there will be no more need to vote (see Revelation 21:1-5).

The next time we think about voting for an earthly ruler, let us not forget that it is far more important who will rule our hearts than who is going to rule the United States. Our greatest honor as Christians is to campaign for Jesus by calling a lost and broken world to a gracious and healing Savior.