Well, that was just to get your attention. It might. It all depends on your perspective. If your whole world is wrapped up in a democratic republic that allows you to choose your leaders, and your hope for tomorrow is in the successful outcome of that choice – then yes, your vote matters. And voting is important. There are a lot of people out there in the world that don’t have a voice in the way their country is governed. If you are American, or from some other democracy, you are blessed. Additionally, people fought and died to give you the right to have a say in the governance of your nation.
But I think one of the downsides of a democracy like ours is that we have an over-inflated view of our power in the process of governance. We think that somehow by our ballot, we are bending the hand of God. But we are not.
“For kingship belongs to the Lord, and he rules over the nations.” Psalm 22:28
“The lot is cast, but it’s every decision is from the Lord.” Prov. 16:33
We will cast our ballots, our preferences can be voiced, but the decision of who rules the “kingdom of the United States” belongs to the Lord. He has the final say. The only say really.
“For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.” Rom. 13:1-2
Here’s the thing – if you are banking on the outcome of Tuesday to determine your comfort in the world you live in, or to fix the problems there are around you, or to right the wrongs, or bring righteousness – you are going to be disappointed. You are living for the wrong kingdom. But if you wake up on Wednesday morning, and carry on the business of THE Kingdom – seeking justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God – the outcome of Tuesday doesn’t mean much to you. Your life will not change.
We are called to live a Kingdom lifestyle. It is our job to seek justice. It is our job to feed the hungry and clothe the homeless. It is our job to speak up for those who have no voice. It is our job to advocate for the helpless. It is our job to welcome the stranger and immigrant. It is our job to visit those in prison and release the captives. It is our job to visit and care for the sick. It is our job. The work of the Kingdom of Jesus is the job of His Body. It is not the job of the president of the United States.
So, while you may have an interest in Tuesday’s outcome, you should not have a deep emotional attachment to it. If you do, you might want to ask yourself where your hope lies.
And remember this – when God appoints a ruler, God is not endorsing that ruler’s character, or his/her morals, or his/her values. God appoints rulers to accomplish God’s purposes and God’s purposes only. We are not privy to knowing what those are most of the time.
Take heart, Saints. Our God reigns and rules the nations. Including the USA.