Mid-term elections are right around the corner (Nov. 8). The political rhetoric is heating up on social media, the daily news, talk shows and podcasts. Neighbors have political signs posted on their front lawns (maybe you do too!). As Election Day approaches, let’s keep in mind four foundational principles from Scripture:
1. God is sovereign over all nations and rulers.
This reality is emphasized repeatedly throughout Scripture, from Genesis all the way through Revelation. Isaiah reminds us that to God “all the nations of the world are but a drop in the bucket. They are nothing more than dust on the scales. He picks up the whole earth as though it were a grain of sand” (Isa. 40:15 NLT). Regardless of who wins what election, believers can rejoice that “our God is in heaven and does whatever he pleases” (Psalm 115:3).
2. Government can’t save us, only God can.
The sovereign God is also the saving God. “Turn to me and be saved, all the ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other” (Isa. 45:22). Nationally syndicated columnist Cal Thomas has rightly noted, “The road of redemption does not run through Washington, D.C.” or anywhere else. Redemption is found in Christ alone (John 14:6). Have you repented of your sin and received him as your Lord and Savior?
3. God has established government for our good.
“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God” (Rom. 13:1). For a society to function, there must be law and order. Otherwise, there is anarchy. While God does not approve of everything that rulers do, he has appointed them for our good. Therefore, we should submit to them, within proper bounds, according to Scripture (Rom. 13:1-2; 1 Peter 2:13-14; Acts 5:29).
4. As Christians, we do good by influencing government for good.
“I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to understand the truth” (1 Tim. 2:1-4 NLT).
Prayer must be our first priority and is to be backed by godly living (Matt. 5:16). Consider how God used Joseph, Daniel, Esther, Nehemiah, Paul and other godly men and women to influence government for good. Let us seek to do the same as God gives us opportunity. Remember, our primary mission is to make disciples (Matt. 28:18-20). As we make much of Jesus, we’ll make a real difference in the world.