“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. ” 1 Timothy 2:1-2 – ESV
“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.” Romans 13:1 - ESV
+ pray + vote + pray +
Greetings to you this month of October! I invite you to look again at the Bible passages above for a moment…
As your pastor who loves you, I’m taking this opportunity and utilizing this forum to encourage you to continue to pray for those who lead us in our community, city, state, and nation. And, as Election Day (November 3) approaches, to do so more and more…and also to vote!
I believe it is always true that every four years, when we elect the President of the United States, there is a significant “up-tick” in rhetoric, posturing, and promising. For some very real and painful reasons—this election cycle finds us in days that are at times also proving to be powerfully violent, opinionated, and sometimes threateningly evil and dangerous. And—politics being politics—these two realities are being combined in terms of cause and effect. In other words, we hear that depending on who is elected, diseases will be cured, violence will come to an end, and global warming will be solved.
So, for whom should you vote? Well, I’m not going to tell you that. I do have some guidance, however, that will come in the form of urging like the Apostle Paul does above. First, pray…and pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:16). Be attentive to your time spent in God’s Word. Listen to His Voice speaking to us there. Pray for those who vote; for those running for office; and for those who are elected. Pray for God’s will to be accomplished and for us as we are given our opportunity to let our light shine for Christ (Matthew 5:17) as we cast our ballots.
I will also tell you that, for me, a candidate’s stand for/position on life is of primary importance. It isn’t a political issue—it’s an expression of the biblical values embedded in my heart. If, in someone’s heart—expressed in his/her life and leadership—terminating innocent, pre-born life is supported and advocated, then it doesn’t matter to me where and how they want to lead. I’m simply unable to follow; they will not get my vote.
What wonderful counsel and consolation we are given in God’s Word! Romans 8:28 reminds us that God is at work! As we trust in Him, believe His Word, and walk by faith and not sight—may He be glorified in how we pray, speak, love, live…and vote. See you in church—on campus or online! In the name of Christ Jesus, in Whom we are one,
Pastor Don Fraker
