A Survival Guide for Election Week: Choosing Faith Over Fear
Bracing For the Storm
You may want to buckle up for the final week before the presidential election. Attack ads, media, social media, half-truths, blatant lies, mockery, and fear-mongering will ramp up even more—if that’s possible—fueling fear, outrage, and division.
Outrage increases clicks and television ratings but can cloud our thinking. Fear can lead faithful believers to compromise values, judge those who cannot see the “obviously” better choice, and act in ways that don’t reflect our love and joy in Christ.
Fear can lead faithful believers to compromise values, judge those who cannot see the “obviously” better choice, and act in ways that don’t reflect our love and joy in Christ.
Jesus Christ is Lord
As followers of Jesus, we’re called to approach this season differently from the world. Instead of succumbing to fear or rage, behold the Lord Jesus Christ with faith and calm both. Jesus has all authority and reigns supreme regardless of who sits in the Oval Office (Romans 13:1). God’s plans and purposes are far higher than ours, and we can trust His good and wise will, regardless of who wins next Tuesday.
Considering the Candidates
As we consider the candidates, don’t listen to the haters on either side! Neither one is a monster; each is a human being who deserves our respect (Romans 13:7). Neither candidate is Hitler; we must resist the fear and hatred such comparisons provoke. Nor does either candidate meet God’s standards for character. But then, who among us does? Seriously. As Jesus said, “No one is good except God alone” (Luke 18:19).
Neither candidate is Hitler; we must resist the fear and hatred such comparisons provoke. Nor does either candidate meet God’s standards for character. But then, who among us does?
God isn’t running for election, but the awesome fact remains that the Father Himself has elected Jesus before the foundations of the world. On the cross, He did what no candidate could do. Three days later, He rose from the dead as our only Savior and Lord. And on the appointed day, He will return to reign as the true and worthy King! Amen.
Biblical Principles and Policies
Until then, we have the privilege to vote. While neither candidate is the devil we fear nor the savior we want, there are biblical principles we can look for in their policies.
Even if Christians disagree on some matters, our ultimate unity is in Christ, not in political alignment. While this list is not exhaustive, here are several matters to keep in mind (even if you’re mind is already made up):
- Righteousness and Justice: God values righteousness and justice—equality under the law, elimination of corruption, and protection of the vulnerable. Do either of the candidates’ platforms demonstrate a commitment to uphold these principles?
- Marriage and Family: Marriage and family are foundational to God’s plan for society. Which candidate’s policies and records promote and support God’s design for families?
- Value Human Life: Human life is uniquely sacred. As seen in Psalm 139 and the narratives of Jesus and John the Baptist in the womb, God values life from its earliest stages. Do the candidates’ positions on abortion and other life-related issues align with God’s stated values?
- Peace and Order: Romans 13:1-7 and 1 Timothy 2:1-2 explain the government’s role to maintain order, prevent violence, and protect its citizens. National security and local peace are foundational to human flourishing. Which candidate best promotes peace and order, both domestically and internationally?
- Freedom of Religion and Speech: God calls us to worship Him according to conscience, live out our faith openly, and speak the truth freely. Does each candidate prioritize these freedoms, allowing us to share and live out our faith without fear?
After the Election
Other biblical principles can be added to the list, but whoever you vote for, let’s continue to trust God, live out our calling together, and fear not.
Whether your pick wins or loses, it’s not the day of salvation or the end of the world. Really! The sun will rise and set as before; our help still comes from the Lord, and Jesus continues to be “the only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords” (1 Timothy 6:15).
Whether your pick wins or loses, it’s not the day of salvation or the end of the world. Really! The sun will rise and set as before; our help still comes from the Lord, and Jesus continues to be “the only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords.”
If fear keeps creeping in, remember to cast your cares on Christ, knowing how much He cares for you. As you do this, Paul encourages us to pray for those in authority so that we may live peaceful and quiet lives, and it might just be the best thing we can do!