Given the contentious election cycle we’re in this is a fair question. Should we elect a leader in spite of their sin? Should we vote for someone because they seem more charismatic or are we more concerned with what their record says? Should Christians even be concerned with civil government?

I am a Christian first, then a patriot. Nevertheless, politics and faith are irrevocably intertwined. The leaders we elect, policies made, our cultural climate are all a reflection of what we value as a society. Christians are called to be the hands and feet of Christ ministering to others. We humbly serve God by defending truth and justice (Micah 6:8) speaking for the least of these, representing a Biblical ideology in our daily living. In America, one way we do this is in how we vote. The government can be a tool used for the practical outworking of our Christian faith.

We operate as a democratic nation, so the policies made by our government are important for us to pay attention to, especially as Christ followers. Our democracy is expressly written in a document which governs the people, the Constitution. Rightly interpreting this freedom allows us to pushback against abuse of power, deceit and mistreatment in society in dealings which are un-Constitutional.

In 2016 I did not vote for Donald Trump, but decided to go third party. His personality was a turn off and frankly he had no policies to look back on and see what his true political colors were. I still don’t care for his thin skin and arrogant behavior. Yet after 4 years Trump has a resume to lean on. What has he done for America in his term? Here are a few of the highlights:

1. Trump champions life in the womb
2. Protects our borders with stronger military allowing immigrants to come to America lawfully
3. Removed toxic Critical Race Theory government funding
4. Improved our economy so its citizens can work with dignity and thrive
5. He believes in the right to bear arms, protect private property, peaceful protesting, and individual liberty.
6. Advocates school choice

All of these issues are Biblical. God creates life demanding its preservation, especially toward the vulnerable and voiceless (Psalm 139:13-18; James 1:27). God blesses people with land and possessions, entrusting men and women to defend and thrive with His gift (Exodus 22:1-15; 23:31-33) . God also calls for showing no partiality, treating all persons with respect as we are created in His image (Exodus 23:2-3; James 2:1-9).

The apostle Paul wrote that a man should earn his wages and be worthy of them (2 Thessalonians 3:6-10). This means that the able-bodied are not to continuously receive hand-outs or worse, make a living from government checks unwilling to work. This was God’s design from the beginning as He called Adam to take responsibility and rule over the rest of creation (Genesis 1:26-28). Parents are given the task of educating their children about God and the world He has created (Deuteronomy 4:9-10; 6:6-9). The government cannot dictate this decision, forcing you to put your child into a failing school, or an environment that does not share your worldview or even acknowledge it.

No matter your personal opinion on Donald Trump’s character, his record speaks for itself. Furthermore, when given the opportunity he has nominated conservative justices to the Supreme Court. Conservative political thinking rightly interprets the Constitution to its original intent and does not see it as a fluid document for whatever progressive regressive idea blows their way. History has shown conservative politics to be in line with a Biblical worldview whether the person holding this ideology realizes it or not.

There is no one without sin who has ever lived except Christ. We cannot overlook Donald Trump’s multiple marriages and prideful behavior. Yet if our rationale is that we choose not to vote for someone because we consider them sinful then heaven help us. No one should run for office or serve in a church- ever. I would also point out the corrupt dealings Biden has had as well in his checkered past. Joe Biden has been accused of sexual harassment multiple times and is currently involved in a scandal with which his son Hunter Biden served as the straw guy. So this argument among Christians does not hold up considering both candidates are with sin, just as we all are. When you go to vote on November 3, keep in mind we are voting not for a person, but a way of life. The two choices we have are vastly different.

Grace upon grace,

April