At this point, I would think many Americans have their minds made up. In fact, over 24 million Americans have already voted.1 There are “Christian” reasons to vote for either of these candidates. The question remains: who has God chosen to lead America and how will the world react?
“Christian” Politics
I recently saw a diagram outlining the American characteristics of the left versus right politics.2
When you start describing the “Christian” view, it’s difficult to stay on one side or the other. Here are some examples:
- Christians should be inclusive, and yet protective of established morals.
- Christians should be loving and build relationships of respect and trust, and yet tough love is often required to build discipline and a strong character.
- Christians should help those in need to encourage unity and equality, and yet make the most of every opportunity and be great stewards of our resources.
- Christians should pursue peace, and yet protect those who cannot defend themselves.
The problem in 2016 is that neither of the candidates fit perfectly into the ideal left or right, and neither are “Christian.” Clinton has proven to be untrustworthy, or even unethical at times, and Trump’s tactics are aggressively non-conservative.
My point is this – voting “Christian” is not an option. American Christians need prayer so they can choose the leader God has already chosen. #Election2016 Click To TweetThe choice is between Clinton, who has few Christian morals but has some Christian polices, and Trump, who holds true to most Christian morals, but has few Christian polices. American Christians need prayer so they can choose the leader God has already chosen (Acts 1:24), not the “Christian” leader, because that’s not an option.
In God we trust…
As the Pledge of Allegiance and the US currency clearly states, the American people put their trust in God. While many now don’t truly believe this, Christians certainly should because scripture tells us to do so. In the case of political leaders, we know God is completely in control! Paul wrote:
“…there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” (Romans 13:1, NIV)
No matter the final outcome on November 8, God is completely in control and there is no need to fear. American Christians need prayer so they can trust God, and not fear the outcome.
The Canadian Christian Reaction
I’ve watched the Canadian reaction during this election at a bit of a distance. As a Canadian, I really don’t have much to say, other than pray for fellow believers as they try to navigate through the muddy waters. If you’re Canadian, this is my advice:
- Pray – honestly and earnestly pray for American Christians as they go to the polls to vote. Pray that they hear God’s voice and vote accordingly. Pray that they don’t fear the outcome, but put their trust in God’s direction. American Christians need prayer so they can trust God, and not fear the outcome. #Election2016 Click To Tweet
- Don’t advocate – you’re Canadian, not American. I wouldn’t expect Americans to understand Canadian politics either. All I know is that the election is far from ideal and both candidates have pros and cons. As Canadian Christians, should we be advocating one way or other? Probably not.
- Publicly state your support – as fellow believers, let American Christians know you support them. Let them know you’re praying for them and the results of the election. If there’s one good thing about social media – it’s your platform to bring encouragement internationally.
- Pray for our government – Trudeau and his government will have to work closely with whoever is elected. Pray for wisdom, so that our leaders don’t lead out of fear.
Your turn…
Are you praying? How do you think Canadians should react to the election?
I would love to hear from you! Feel free to comment below, on social media, or by email (andrewholm@gmail.com). SUBSCRIBE HERE!
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