Candidates Need to Take a Page Out of This Book
It's that time of year again. The time when all of America gives a collective cringe every time a commercial comes on the TV screen. Yes, it's election time.
Depending on where you live in the country, your exposure to negative campaign ads might be relatively mild or stunningly aggressive. But unless you have pulled the plug on the television, you have undoubtedly encountered some negative ads.
We all know the type: the gravely voiceover begins by spewing the name of a rival candidate as though it were a cuss word. "Candidate X says he is in favor of policy A. But he is lying." Then the most unflattering images of Candidate X fill the screen along with documentation too small to read that seemingly proves he is a liar. The commercial wraps when the voiceover switches to a cheerful tone to tell us that Candidate Y is a great guy. Much better than Candidate X. If you care at all about your state (or district or country) you'll vote for Candidate Y.
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It is enough to make you want to vote "none of the above" on Election Day. But don't do that! Before you give up on the whole thing, consider turning to the Bible.
The Bible is an awesome resource for both candidates and voters. For candidates, God's Word gives instruction about how to conduct oneself in public and in private. Luke 6:31 says, "Treat others the same way you want them to treat you." Regarding speech, God's Word says to "let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear."
Speaking about the qualifications for a leader, 1 Timothy 3:2 says, "an elder must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife. He must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation. He must enjoy having guests in his home, and he must be able to teach." While the verse is talking about spiritual leaders, would not the same principles serve as a wise guideline for elected officials?
For voters, the Bible offers useful recommendations for selecting a leader. Look for candidates who "fear God, trustworthy men who hate dishonest gain." (Exodus 18:21) Choose someone who is "wise, discerning and well respected." (Deut. 1:13) James 1:5 tells us, "If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him."
Our role, according to 1 Timothy 2:1-2 is to pray for our leaders and to give thanks for them: "Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity."
Christians can rest in the assurance that, regardless of who is in office, God is ultimately in charge. Psalm 22:28 tells us, "kingship belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations." And while that doesn't absolve us from our duty as citizens to vote, it should remind us of our citizenship in God's Kingdom and inspire us to seek guidance from the pages of his Word.
