When I consider Christian citizenship, I think about how our lives should mirror the life of Jesus, obeying His commands by sharing our love and compassion for all people. We should have a deep burden and desire in our heart that all people will come to know Jesus as their Lord and Savior, which means we must be sharing the plan of salvation.
During the month of June, the Ethics and Religious Liberty Committee emphasizes another phase of Christian citizenship. Christians, being actively involved with shaping our government, are crucial to restoring our countries moral values and preserving freedom, paid for with the ultimate sacrifice by so many brave men and women.
It is our duty as Christians and as Americans to do our part, even when the surrounding political atmosphere is distasteful. “When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice. But when the wicked are in power, they groan” (Prov. 29:2).
Unfortunately, many Christians do not register to vote, and many of those registered fail to cast their ballot. In Rom. 13:1, Paul shares how authorities were established by God. Personally, I believe it would be displeasing to God to have His people sitting on the side lines, while allowing nonbelievers to control the selection of our government officials, resulting in those elected to implement immoral laws affecting all people.
Sadly, when we don’t register or are registered and fail to participate in our elections, at all levels of government, we are contributing to the downfall of these United States of America. Just casting a vote is not sufficient. We must also seek information about the candidates and the issues, meaning we need to put some effort into forming an educated decision.
We should pray for wisdom for ourselves and for our elected leaders, especially for those of whom we differ. Furthermore, if we are not teaching our children the importance of their civic duty, a lackadaisical attitude may be passed on for generations. Samuel Adams, one of our country’s founding fathers said, ”Let each citizen remember at the moment he is offering his vote… that he is executing one of the most solemn trusts in human society for which he is accountable to God and his country.”
Our churches should be in the lead for promoting the importance of Christians fulfilling their civic duty.
If voter registrations are not presently being held in your church, consider making it available to your members two or three times a year. It is a simple reminder for those needing to register for the first time, and those needing to update their registrations.
When Christians band together, we can have a substantial impact on electing candidates with Christian moral values, who will in turn help protect our religious freedoms, which are constantly being challenged and stripped away. Remember, we are accountable to God and our country.
