Who should Christians vote for in the upcoming presidential elections?

We have heard some Christians say that they won’t vote for President Obama because he is for same sex marriage. We have heard other Christians say that they will not vote for Governor Romney because he is a Mormon. Who’s right? How should Christians vote in November? Or should we even vote at all?

As we sort through this issue, there are two irrefutable truths that come to light. First, barring some unforeseen catastrophe, come January 2013 one of the two, Mr. Obama or Mr. Romney, will be President of the United States of America by majority vote of the citizens of our country. As believers, our faith requires us to be responsible citizens and to set good examples. We do this by making sure our vote counts. So, for this reason, not voting is not an option for Christians.

Second, we must face reality. We live in a pluralistic, multi-cultural society that embraces a broad spectrum of religious beliefs, ethical practices, and attitudes about morality and personal responsibility. We are God’s ambassadors. Part of being in the world, but not of the world, involves being God’s remnant that exerts moral pressure upon our society to follow Biblical principles for living even in the face of resistance and opposition. We must be in the battle, and not standing on the sidelines, to exert this pressure. Again, we must draw the conclusion that not voting is not an option for Christians.

So, where does that leave us on the issue of which candidate should the Christian vote for? It should leave us with a commitment to do our homework. Our election will not be determined on the basis of any one issue. We will not find a candidate with whom we will agree on all issues. One candidate may be a non-Christian and another candidate may compromise his Christian faith. We should obtain as much information as we can about the candidates and all their positions.

Then, with this knowledge base, we are equipped to seek the Lord through prayer for wisdom and direction regarding our decision about whom we should vote for. With this knowledge base we are equipped to be specific in our prayers as we seek God’s guidance. It’s not so much a question of whom we should vote for as it is a question of whom God wants us to vote for. Remember history records many mighty works that God wrought through the hands of – or in spite of – unbelieving leaders. When we ask God for His wisdom, the Bible says that God will give it to us liberally.

Your comments and thoughts regarding this Christian Perspective for Living are welcomed.