By Lena Richee & the Grace Research Team

 

1. Make God’s Word the Standard

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night… Psalms 1:1-2

As Christians we know that while we all have our opinions, God is the ultimate judge of all people. His word sets the standard for what is right and what is wrong. So, we are not to judge on our own, but in earnestness according to His principles. That means as Christians we must take time to search, study and know the principles and character of God, for that is the benchmark by which we can discern what values to follow and uphold.

The same is true when choosing leaders to guide our city, state or nation. We can glean a lot from looking at where each candidate stands on Biblical values. How well do they follow what God says is good and reject what God calls sin? Is what the candidate aims to accomplish in line with what the Bible says and the Spirit of the law behind it?

Of course, no man or woman is perfect. But His Word stands as the only standard by which we can compare the aims, actions and policies of our leaders. Are they closer or further from what God has said is good?

 

God will judge the righteous and the wicked, for there is a time for every matter and for every work. Ecclesiastes 3:17 

But they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 1 Peter 4:5

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17

 

2. Check Their Record

Since past behavior can often be a predictor of future behavior, this is important to consider when researching any candidate. How a person behaves in their work and private life can tell you a lot about their priorities and their character, even beyond what they say or promise. Look to see if the candidate has ever held any office before. If so, check their voting record to see if it reflects biblical values. Did they tell the truth about their goals? Did they seriously attempt to accomplish or fulfill the promises made during their campaign? Have their actions resulted in harm or good? Have they pursued righteousness while in office? If they have never been in office before, have they pursued righteousness in their previous job? In their family life or within their church community.

“Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits.” Matt 7:15-16

 

3. Explore Trustworthy Sources

This can be hard to do because recent laws have made it legal for the media to reject truth and propagandize American citizens. For this reason, it’s ever more important to double check the resources you’re using, not only their past reliability, but their recent track record of standing for truth. It may also be helpful to talk to people in your life who’s judgement you trust. If you know of a fellow Christian who is deeply involved in politics then reach out to them to see what they know. They may have heard and experienced situations with the candidate that provide insight not found anywhere else.

Ultimately, you have to be the judge on what you believe is trustworthy, but we have provided a few examples of what we believe to be trusted, often faith-based, resources below:

Mofirst is a website by Missouri Constitution scholar Ron Calzone. It will be giving insight into the November Missouri constitutional ballot initiatives we will be voting on.

TheGatewayPundit is an online news publication, often covering Missouri as its founders are from Missouri.

MyFaithVotes is an excellent one-stop resource that will educate (Think Biblically engaging 5-minute videos) and equip you for your local election (My Voter Hub) where you can verify that your voter registration is correct and you can send letters of encouragement and prayer to Christians in swing states.

Ivoter Guide offers Biblically based guides and information on various races.

Your Missouri Judges provides information about judges in Missouri.

Alternative Media Resources includes a helpful list of channels that offer an alternative to the mainstream narrative.

 

4. Utilize Search Engines and Social Media

Have you ever tried to Google yourself? If not, I recommend you sit down and try it one day. You may be surprised about how much information has been collected about you and is free for anyone to see with wifi access and your name. This collated collection of information applies to most people and is an easy resource to get a better idea about the candidate.

 

Another good source is through the use of different social media platforms. Not having a FB is stranger than having one these days. With the person’s name and location you can find their facebook page and get a better idea of who they are as a person in their personal life. Are they walking what they preach or do their pictures tell a different story? FB is not only used on a personal level but oftentimes many will have a page for their campaign or organization. These pages can be a great source of information about their campaign and what the person stands for.

 

5. Pray

Finally, communion with God is the bedrock of our faith. As with all things, the situation is ultimately in God’s hands, not ours. He is not surprised about what is going on. He sees the corruption that is running rampant and warned us about it 2000 years ago. So, let’s pray to be in His will during this election. Check out Intercessors for America, to find tools and resources to help you stay vigilant before the Lord.

 

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Grace Church does not endorse any candidates.