We often forget, especially here in the Land of the Free, how privileged we are to have the freedom to vote. For Christians, voting is not just a civic duty; it is an administrative act. When we vote, we participate in the formation of our nation.

According to a recent Barna study from Arizona Christian University, 32 million Christians who attend church regularly will not vote this election season.

As Paul exhorts in Philemon 1:8-9: “Therefore I boldly ask a favor of you. I could ask it in the name of Christ because it is what you must do for yourself, but for love’s sake I prefer to appeal to you.” I boldly ask you to take this opportunity to prepare and vote.

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While many Christians in the US choose not to vote, millions of believers around the world do not have that option. In countries where religious persecution and government oppression reign, the freedom to participate in the formation of the government is non-existent. According to Open Doors US, many Christians live in countries where their rights are severely restricted, including the right to vote. The contrast is stark: we who live in freedom often choose not to use it, while our brothers and sisters in Christ under oppressive regimes yearn for the ability to influence their governments through voting.

As Christians, what would it look like for us to joyfully respond to the God-given freedom to impact our communities through voting? We often feel overwhelmed by the flood of information surrounding the election, not knowing where to start. Researching candidates and issues, while daunting, is an opportunity to make informed choices that reflect our values.

I recently spoke with a group of colleagues, encouraging them to seek out voter guides from organizations they align with or explore candidate websites. While we may never find a candidate with whom we agree 100%, we can still vote with a heart aligned with God’s values. Even in the global church, there is a diversity of opinion. However, at our core, we share common beliefs rooted in Scripture and seek what is best for our communities.

In an age where we are constantly inundated with information, it is vital to rely on God’s wisdom to cut through the noise and make informed decisions. Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; submit to Him in all your ways, and He will direct your paths.” This includes the decisions we make at the polls. Through prayer, discernment, and research, we can express our votes in a way that honors God and our role as stewards of His creation.

In Venezuela, my family experienced firsthand the weight of civic responsibility. People would knock on your door to make sure you were on the ballot. The significance of participating in shaping the future was palpable.

The question is: Will those of us blessed with the freedom to vote participate in November and beyond? The opportunity to vote is a gift and a responsibility. As we reflect on our global Christian family, we should be inspired to engage more fully in the democratic process—not for ourselves, but for the sake of advancing righteousness, justice, and biblical principles.

The Bible provides clear guidance on the importance of civic engagement. As Christians, we are called to be lights in the world, working for righteousness and justice.

Throughout history, Christian leaders have made significant contributions to civil rights and political change. Figures like William Wilberforce, who fought against slavery in the British Empire, and the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr., who championed civil rights in the United States, illustrate the powerful impact people of faith can have when they get involved in the political process.

Like these leaders, you have the opportunity to be a leader in your home and community by letting your light shine this election season. Your vote matters. As Christians, we are called to be salt and light in the world (Matthew 5:13-16), influencing society in ways that reflect God’s justice, mercy, and love. Every vote is an opportunity to shape a future that aligns more closely with the values ​​of God’s Kingdom. When we vote, we demonstrate our commitment to the well-being of our communities and our desire to see God’s will done on earth.

While the deadline to register for the upcoming election may have passed, it’s never too early to start preparing for the upcoming election. Every election, including state and local elections, has meaning. If you’re not registered, now is the time to take that step to ensure you’re ready for the upcoming voting season. Registration gives you the option to vote or not, but if you don’t register, the choice is made for you.

As Christians, it is essential that we approach voting with intentionality. Take time to review your ballot, research constitutional amendments, and seek guidance on important issues. Proverbs 1:5 reminds us, “Let the wise listen and add to their learning, and let the shrewd receive guidance.” We have access to many resources, including county supervisor of elections websites, nonpartisan voter guides, and state voting guides, to help us make informed decisions. Understanding the implications of a yes or no vote can provide clarity and confidence as we cast our votes.

As we prepare for the election, let’s commit to praying for wisdom, for our leaders, and for our communities. After we have cast our votes, we can rest in the knowledge that we have done our best to contribute to society and the Lord will keep us in perfect peace (Isaiah 26:3).

Regardless of the outcome, our responsibility remains to continue to pray and be the hands and feet of Christ in our communities. Whether you vote in person early or on November 5 or vote by mail, don’t forget to count all the joys.