Vote Responsibly

“So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s…”
Matthew 22:21 (NIV)

 Did you know that your vote today is part of your calling as a Christian?

In Matthew 22:21 Jesus said, “So give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s.” What did Caesar represent in this verse? At this time, Israel was under Roman rule, so Cesar’s coin represented the government to which God’s people were responsible.  

In a democratic society, your first responsibility to the government is to select good people to serve. We recognize in America that no one is perfect. People will fail and no one has all the answers. That’s why we have a “checks and balances” system in place, to help navigate the challenges when those in power can be untrustworthy. 

When you vote responsibly, you help maintain the accountability of the government. This is an opportunity the people of Israel did not possess. Jesus’ audience was oppressed by Rome and their voice was of no importance. 

But you have the opportunity to help build a healthy government that will pass beneficial legislation. We need wise people to legislate the law (Congress), adjudicate the law (judges), and a conscientious leader to effectuate the laws (President). How do you help bring that to pass? By voting.

Voting is not just a right, but also a spiritual responsibility. You not only have a duty to vote, but a duty to vote responsibly. Release any obligation to a party, policy, or person, and instead, vote for principles. Then you can focus less on Democrat and Republican and take up your calling as a Christian.

Part of your calling is to consider ballot measures and vote. Don’t question whether your vote counts. Your vote always counts because it counts to God. He gives you the privilege of living in a country where you can vote. With every privilege comes a responsibility. 

Through the act of voting, you are giving Cesar what is Caesar's. By doing so prayerfully, you are also giving God what is God’s. And He will give you the wisdom you need to make choices that honor Him. 

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for the country I live in. Thank You for the privilege to have a say in how our government functions. Help me take my responsibility seriously, and vote with wisdom and hope. And Lord, let Your kingdom come and Your will be done, in every heart and household of this country, as it is in heaven. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.