Why do I really vote? I feel strongly about exercising my right and privilege to vote, but why? Because I was raised by parents who always voted at every election and raised me with a high value to exercise such rights as citizens of a country that allows us this right? Or is it because I know my vote counts and I want to have a voice? Or so that I can say I voted? So that I can get that sticker?!In years past it has been any and all of these reasons, but over the years, especially this year, I have been challenged by the Lord and others in my life to see a slightly different perspective. Do I really vote because my vote counts? Recently a dear friend said to me, "I don't vote because my vote counts. But I vote because it's a stewardship and privilege that other believers around the world do not have the opportunity or freedom to do."
Sure it feels good to have a voice and know my voice counts, but that is not really why I vote. I vote because I believe that I have been blessed with this incredible opportunity and privilege that so many around the world do not have but would love to! So I want to steward that freedom and privilege well!
Now, I realize that many would argue there is a not a candidate they can get behind and vote 'for' with good conscience in this specific election. I get that. But I'm also not going there on this post for various obvious reasons. :)
My point is...I voted, not simply because my vote counts, but because it is an honor and a privilege and, for me, a 'stewardship', as my friend said. And in the midst of voting...before, during and after....I pray.
God's Word tells us in 1 Timothy 2:1-5:
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. Thsi is good, and it is pleasing int he sight of God our Savior, who desires all poeple to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God,, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time.
So I will pray for our country, for all those who are in high positions. I will pray taht believers, especially those in elected positions tomorrow, will lead their lives in ways that allow them opportunities to further His Kingdom here on earth and to lead others to the knowledge of the truth. Because there is ONE GOD (above any and all countries) and there is ONE MEDIATOR JESUS (above any and all leaders) who gave Himself for all, that is...for every single one of us.
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. Thsi is good, and it is pleasing int he sight of God our Savior, who desires all poeple to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God,, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time.
I am reminded that regardless of what happens tomorrow on this election day that our God is GOOD and SOVEREIGN and He is working to further His Kingdom during this time. I do not know what that will look like, or through whom, but I know that regardless of the results, Jesis is still on the throne and NOTHING can change that fact!
So I will pray for our country, for all those who are in high positions. I will pray taht believers, especially those in elected positions tomorrow, will lead their lives in ways that allow them opportunities to further His Kingdom here on earth and to lead others to the knowledge of the truth. Because there is ONE GOD (above any and all countries) and there is ONE MEDIATOR JESUS (above any and all leaders) who gave Himself for all, that is...for every single one of us.
And THAT is the Good News friends! And THAT is why I vote!
