VOTE!

This election is so crucial. Thankfully, we have been given the privilege and responsibility to vote. In a democracy, we choose our leaders and the Bible tells us that they hold great responsibility over us. In Romans 13, Paul gives us several governmental responsibilities. 

1.  “For he (the one in authority vs.3 ) is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer”(Romans 13:4 NIV). There is evil in the world, and our leaders must be wise, bold and steadfast in protecting us from that evil. They also are charged with punishing the crimes already committed. This takes a Solomon size balance between justice and mercy, and the judges you and I allow over us must be fair. Godly wisdom must flow through them to their decisions. 

2.  Romans 13:5 tells us, “Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience.” If we are to be good citizens, then we must see good laws put in place and then obey them. In the United States, legislators play a crucial role in our lives. Our choice of who makes the laws is as large as who carries them out. 
 
3.  The government is given the ability to tax its citizens. “This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him:If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue” (Romans 13:6,7a NIV).
 
Now as your pastor, the last subject you will hear me speak on is what the marginal tax rate should be. God only says if it’s the law, pay all that is required. We should be models of what it means to be good citizens.
 
Finally, on the subject of government, pray for those who hold authority over us. This is our Christian duty, and I have been asked by many of our elected officials for prayer. Our own Gary Kendrick asks for prayer as he weighs the decisions in front of the El Cajon City Council. Diane Jacobs has called on me to pray for San Diego County, and I have led that chamber in asking God for insight. I also met our president, George W. Bush when he was governor of Texas. As he shook my hand, he asked me what I did and I told him I was a pastor. He asked me to pray for him, and I have tried to do that as he leads our country.

All of us should pray for those in authority over us and we will help decide who those individuals are by exercising our right to vote. Go into that private voting booth and make your voice heard. Don’t take this privilege lightly and God be with you as you make your decision.