In our last episode…

A recent post about whether Christians should sit out or perhaps cast a protest vote in this year’s election has generated some spirited response. Let’s hear from you along with some unsolicited comments (as always) from yours truly.

Our first comments come from Russ who tried a crazy idea. He decided to go to God’s Word, spend time with God and pray. If too many follow Russ’s lead we could be threatened with unity so we must tread carefully. Maybe that is the sarcasm that reader Larry noticed in his comments yesterday. Here is the result of the crazy prayer idea.

So basically after I went to God, prayed and became revitalized, it was clear what I must do. First, stop letting the media scare me into thinking we do not matter. Second, prepare to vote, keeping in mind, there are other races other than President (Senate, House, State legislatures, etc) and to seek out good candidates to support that will represent what I believe it right. Third, is to pray for whatever candidate wins. Pray that God would work on their heart and that they would seek His counsel. And fourth, continue to voice our opinions to our elected representatives.

Very well said. Thanks. Maybe I will try your wild scheme. Next up is Bridgette.

Thank you for a very timely piece. I’m an Independent (which is almost as evil as being a democrat in some evangelical microcosms.)

I really wonder about the advice some of these “leaders” are giving. I realize it is more of the “conservative” leaders than the “evangelical” leaders that are advocating the next position; however, I’ve even heard folks say that if it comes down to Mrs. Clinton or Mr. McCain that they would go for Mrs. Clinton in hopes that she will enable the republicans to win next time with a “real” conservative.

That is solid logic. I think I will suggest to youngest son that he marry a bad wife so he can realize his mistake and get a good wife the next time.

I wonder if the “leaders” are really spending time in prayer? It really does sound like flesh is speaking.

Maybe I can forward them to Russ and he can explain that whole “pray and read scripture thing” to them. Bridgette, unfortunately, was not done.

One small nit — Five for Fighting is a solo act with a rather ambiguous name.

DOH! That explains why there is only one dude in the video. Thanks for helping me to shorten my stupid span. There is no nit too small to pick when I am factually wrong.

Reader John had this to say.  

I would like to suggest that we really are not just faced with a choice of A or B. (Be that McCain/Clinton or something else.) I realize that it will be impractical, but if enough people would not be resigned to “I don’t like either of the choices, therefore I will simply not vote.” then we might be able to effect real change. I am very disheartened that 33% is considered good voter turnout. How much could be done if that other 66% would actually come out and express their opinion? We are not faced with just the donkey and elephant for choice.

I realize that it is not practical to expect that a true independent (write-in) candidate could be elected. But if I stay home for not liking either choice, I have made my choice to allow others to decide how I am governed. I do not believe that is what we are called to by God.

“If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice.”
Geddy Lee

My heart agrees with John and I wish that independents were a viable option. But that groundwork must be prepared now for future elections. This time around we must play the hand that is dealt to us by the system. Plus I love anyone who finishes with a quote from Geddy Lee, the vocalist from the rock group Rush. Nice.

Next up is the cryptically named P4F.

FYI.

Thank you for clearing my mind of all the clutter of the media. I was feeling like many others that the only solution was to not vote but in my heart felt that was not a good alternative. This reminded me that if I vote in a manner of prayer that God will lead me and lay on my heart the best of the candidates and His purposes will be fulfilled. We need to be more open to stepping out into faith and the arms of Jesus. After all isn’t this the way Jesus lived? He stayed open and faithful to the purpose of God.

Thanks so much for a well written answer to the question of many!

You are welcome. And thank you for my new ministry. Media Clutter Clearance Consultant. That will be a full-time job!

And the last word (almost) will go to faithful reader Kathleen.

I begin by saying how much I value my privilege (and related duty) to make my wishes known at the polls. I will vote even if I’m not enchanted with the candidate I select (I hate to admit it, but I voted for Ross Perot back when …). Anyway, last I heard, God is in control and will achieve His purposes with either a noble or an ignoble outcome. It’s best I leave that to Him while I work my assignment to be light and salt.

“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth…. Nevertheless, God’s solid foundation stands firm, sealed with this inscription: “The Lord knows those who are His … In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble. If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work. (2 Tim 2:15, 19-21)

God’s Word is a great place to end. Thanks for your input.