The Privilege and Duty of Voting
I have to admit that I have some election fatigue. More than two years of campaigning, billions of dollars spent, and who knows how many trees were used for political mailers. All of that coupled with the extreme language coming from both sides predicting the “end of America” depending on who wins is…tiring.
A quick look at history reminds us of our country’s resilience. Our nation has survived a lot, and we’ll get through this, too.
With election day less than a week away, here are some final thoughts on voting and what to do after casting your ballot.
Voting: A Privilege and A Civic Duty
You’ve probably heard it often said, “This is the most important election of our lifetime.” Interestingly, that phrase was first printed in a newspaper way back in 1805. It turns out every generation sees their moment as pivotal. And they’re right—voting has always been a big deal.
Elections are important. Voting is a privilege and a responsibility that comes with being an engaged citizen—something we should never take for granted.
Our government is (or should be) guided by the Constitution. The preamble sets the stage for the Constitution, stating its purpose: to form a more perfect union, establish justice, ensure domestic peace, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to all people.
The Constitution upholds the Bill of Rights. The first ten amendments, added around 1791, ensure specific protections for individual liberties and to limit government power.
These amendments guarantee things like freedom of religion, freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, the right to bear arms, the right to a jury trial, and more.
We vote to elect individuals who will uphold the laws and the freedoms listed in the Constitution.
The Cascading Impact of a Presidential Election
This past week, I was reminded that one of the president’s first responsibilities is to appoint over four thousand government officials, starting with their cabinet and beyond.
In other words, electing a president means not just sending one person to Washington, D.C., but influencing the thousands of men and women who will serve throughout their administration. As Michael Geer, from the PA Family Institute, points out, “These are the people who will have the greatest impact on our families, our schools, businesses, and much more.”
Election fatigue is real, but the impact of casting a vote is a real privilege.
Election Day Prayer
Whether you voted early or decided to wait in line on election day, remember that elections may shape public policy, but they do not shape the kingdom of God. And if Jesus and his kingdom aren’t moved by election results, followers of Jesus shouldn’t be either.
Regardless of who becomes president, we’ll continue living to advance the kingdom of God because our hope is anchored in Jesus. Only he can transform a human heart. We’re not going to give up. We’re not going to quit being ambassadors of Christ.
I will continue to pray for revival in our land. I pray that we as a nation would humble ourselves before almighty God, the Creator of heaven and earth, repent for our sins, and plead for His mercy.
I will continue to encourage people of faith to be bold and courageous in proclaiming the message of Jesus and speak truth with grace, just as Jesus did.
So,
Vote and thank God for the opportunity to have a voice in how we are governed.
Vote and pray for the leaders—elected and appointed—who influence government at every level.
Vote and remember we represent Jesus as an ambassador.
Vote and keep being a good human. Call someone to say how much you love them. Send a note to a friend to tell them how much you appreciate them. Give a generous charitable donation to a local ministry or organization who are doing impactful work. Look for ways to make a difference in the life of a child.
Vote and be at rest because God is still on the throne. Jesus is still the King of Kings. And one day, every knee will bow, every tongue will declare He is Lord.
Vote. Keep calm and carry on.