Well, it’s finally over and we have our new president- & vice-president- elects, Barack Obama and Joe Biden. As we all know, this was a historic election in that the first Black person is slated to become the next President of the United States. Just because I am Black does not mean I am filled with the warm fuzzies as many are. I am a child of God first and frankly one’s race does not make me an iota of difference if one’s values are contrary to those of God as outlined in scripture. Several months ago, Sean and I decided to sit out this election. This was a first for me since I became of voting age several elections ago.

Why did I choose not to vote?

“Moreover, look for able men from all the people, men who fear God, who are trustworthy and hate a bribe, and place such men over the people as chiefs of thousands, of hundreds, of fifties, and of tens.” Exodus 18:21

In this election, I was hard-pressed to find a man who exhibited qualities through platform, voting record, verbal affirmation etc. that pointed to a fear of God. A candidate’s simple claim to be “a man of faith” with very little fruit to back that up was not enough to spur me to voting action. I was particularly dismayed when aspects of the candidates’ platforms or voting records were completely opposed to God’s word.

Now that the election is over, what am I as a Christian called to do?

“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time.” I Timothy 2:1-6

“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. 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.” Romans 13:1-2

According to scripture, I am to lift my leaders up in prayer and lead a life of peace, quiet, godliness and dignity. Perhaps my Christian example may be a light to others. I am not to disparage my leaders with slander and insults. No president or government is to be my savior, only Jesus Christ can fit that bill.  However, I am to be subject to the authorities placed over me, recognizing that God has ordained their rise to power -- for blessing or for judgment.  I am to remember that in the end, it is all for the Lord's glory.

In Christ, Talya… 19 days to go!