With the federal election only two weeks away, the decision of which candidate to choose is on everyone's mind. But from the GOD-centered perspective, how should this choice be made? How should Christians think about the election, and government. What is the Biblical category for understanding these issues?
In the remainder of this post, we will see that these questions can be reduced to one simple, but fundamental principle.
Proverbs 29:2 KJV
When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn.
In GOD's system, it does not matter how smart or comprehensive a leader's platform is. It does not matter that he is well versed on all the issues, nor that he handles opponents skilfully in a debate. It does not matter if he has answers to every question put to him. GOD looks at the heart. If he is wicked, i.e. he does not fear GOD, then his plan will not lead to national peace or prosperity. Rather, we are promised only sorrow, "the people mourn", because GOD will curse our land.
If, however, a righteous man is in authority then we are promised prosperity, "the people rejoice". We will be blessed, even if that leader himself does not have the best solution to the health care, energy, or economic problems. It does not matter. If he fears the LORD, GOD will bless our land. GOD's ability to bless is not dependent on our political strategies.
And, GOD's ability to curse is not limited either. No popular, charismatic, or wealthy leader can shelter us from GOD's judgment.
A Question of Obedience
The rising or falling of our nation is linked directly to whether or not we fear GOD. To whether or not we humble ourselves and repent. The following Scripture makes this clear.
Proverbs 28:2 KJV
For the transgression of a land many are the princes thereof: but by a man of understanding and knowledge the state thereof shall be prolonged.
The "many princes" refers to over-grown government, over taxation, over regulation, etc. It means that the government becomes a burden to the people, rather than a blessing (which it should be, Romans 13:3-4). Notice, it is because of the transgression of the land, our sin, that GOD sends this burdensome government as judgment.
And, notice the promise GOD makes in HIS mercy: "by a man of understanding...the state shall be prolonged". This means "understanding" and "knowledge" of GOD'S LAW!! Not political theory or man's wisdom, but GOD'S WORD!! If we turn to GOD, seek HIM, and obey HIS WORD, HE will bless our nation.
The ONE Issue
The Biblical category to use in deciding in an election, or any issue, is how do we love honor and obey GOD in the decision. We cannot act wisely, or even have true knowledge, apart from the fear of the LORD (Proverbs 1:7). If we fear GOD, we tremble at HIS WORD and obey HIS commands. And in Scripture HE commands all men, everywhere, to repent! The following scripture defines the one election issue.
Mark 1:15 KJV
2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV
And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand: repent ye, and believe the gospel.
We Are Called To Pray
There is only one solution to every problem and issue in our nation. It is to humble ourselves. GOD promises healing to a land not when men make plans and strive to master their own destiny. But, rather, when men submit to GOD's rule.
2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.