PERSPECTIVES
No Matter What Happens at the Polls
By Hannah Goodwyn
CBN.com Producer
CBN.com
– We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.
~ The Declaration of Independence
Thomas Jefferson penned these famous words in the first months of our country’s fight for freedom from Great Britain. According to our declaration and the Bible, God, our Creator, sees us as equals and wants us all to experience freedom and joy in life. This is what I hold onto each time I step up to a voting booth, and today is no different.
Whoever wins at the ballot boxes today will take the reins as president of this great country in January. George W. will step back, and a new chapter in our history will start a fresh page. It’s a humbling task what lies before our new leader. He’ll be picking up the pieces of our fragile economy, getting our military on a good course, and leading a divided nation.
A Country Divided
Some would say our country is split down the middle between those who align with Democratic values and those who have Republican views. Based on the bickering amongst politicians and citizens alike, I’d say we’re in a civil war of beliefs. No side wants to give up their position; no one wants to compromise. To a point, that’s understandable. To rethink one’s point of view for the sake of “peace in politics” would be difficult indeed, but our nation must work together if we’re ever going to accomplish anything.
“Any kingdom divided by civil war is doomed. A town or family splintered by feuding will fall apart.” Matthew 12:25 (NLT)
Change is good. But unless our politicians quit some of the backbiting, we’re never going to see it happen. We need integrity and hard work coming out of our nation’s capital instead of endless “debates” that only delay real action. Righteous indignation on certain issues is valid and biblical, but let's make sure that whatever we "fight" about is perfectly aligned with God's Word.
Our nation was settled as a refuge for those persecuted for their beliefs, yet we persecute each other today for our personal platforms. Wouldn’t it be appropriate for an updated version of Matthew 19:19, to say: “Love thy opposing party as thyself?”
Christians, follow Christ’s example and the advice given by Peter in the New Testament:
Be agreeable, be sympathetic, be loving, be compassionate, be humble. That goes for all of you, no exceptions. No retaliation. No sharp-tongued sarcasm. Instead, bless—that's your job, to bless. You'll be a blessing and also get a blessing. 1 Peter 3:8-9 (The Message)
At the End of Election Day
As Christian citizens, it is our responsibility to pray for our nation, more specifically our leaders. No matter who wins the presidency we will need God’s provision, protection, and guidance. Only He knows what’s ahead and we need to trust that by putting our faith in Him – and not man – the United States of America will see better days.
Putting all of our hope in one man to lead us out of a financial, political, and social mess is unwise. Moses led his people – the Israelites – out of bondage. But, he didn’t find the way out on his own. God led him to the Promised Land. May the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, lead America into our Promise.
We cast the vote, but the Bible says God determines who will govern.
So that everyone may know that the Most High rules over the kingdoms of the world. He gives them to anyone he chooses — even to the lowliest of people.” Daniel 4:17 (NLT)
Rest assured that whoever wins this election, God will give him grace to endure the trials ahead, Truth to live by, and wisdom to lead this country. What we must pray for is that our new president receives this guidance.
 Hannah Goodwyn serves as a producer for LivingTheLife.com and CBN.com. She also writes for these sites. For more articles and info, visit Hannah's bio page.
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