The race looks set to go down the wire, and with each subsequent US presidential election, the choice between the nation’s next leader seems to be a more and more difficult one to make. Some have even echoed sentiments that it is between the devil and the deep blue sea, but we as Christians -- who should we vote for? Donald Trump or Hillary Clinton?
While the US practices a separation of state and religion as outlined in its Constitution, there is still the overwhelming perception that the US is a “Christian nation”. That might not be the case in this day and age, although back in the early days of the country, you could say that Christian values can be found in just about every aspect of life and administration. The big question that arrives this November 8: Would the Democrats or Republicans prevail, and which of the two will lead this nation for the next 5 years?
One thing is for sure: We Christians have a duty to bring about God’s love to this world. We are all ambassadors of Christ, and if one were to steer clear of politics, it would be a betrayal of God’s trust to help us shape the future of our nation. Daniel was in a high position in the Babylonian empire without betraying God, and so was Nehemiah. Christians in the realm of politics is a good thing -- otherwise how else would everyone know of the salt of the earth and light of the world?
The thing is, when one is faced with a seemingly paucity of choices, what does a Christian do? Would abstaining be the right move? I do not think so, as we are called to carry out our responsibilities in where we are placed -- pledging our allegiance first to God, and then to the country of our birth. Sure, nobody is perfect in this fallen world, but we should vote for the candidate who has shown him or herself to be trustworthy and has an admirable track record, check out the supporting cast, as well as carefully study what kinds of programs and policies which will be implemented in line with God’s will and mandate -- while holding them accountable to all that they have pledged in the run up to the election.
It is going to be a tough question to answer as to which of the two US presidential candidates are more deserving of our precious votes. I would recommend a time to be set aside for fasting and prayer, as John Wesley has mentioned before that “prayer is where the action is”. Let us lay aside our very own thoughts and pre-conceived notions and look beyond race, culture, and other worldviews -- and focus on the Lord Jesus Christ alone. In our time of solitude and quietness, learn to listen from the Great Shepherd as we sit at His feet. He will then move our hearts as to who we should vote for -- in accordance to our conscience, directed by His Holy Spirit.
Remember Proverbs 3:5-6 always, and lean not on our own understanding. May God be acknowledged in all the country's ways, and He will set this great nation on a straight path no matter who emerges as the victor this November 8th.
