Okay... many people here who have read some of my posts may be aware that the subject of politics is not my cup of tea. However, that doesn't stop me from having my thoughts regarding certain issues, some of which I keep to myself, the main reason being that the very subject of politics is so touchy that it strikes the wrong nerve in people, which leads to bloody arguments and hateful bashing (doesn't matter which side). I mean, orderly debate is one thing, but senseless arguing (especially between fellow Christians) is quite another.
Alright, I'm ready... I think....!!
Well, here's the deal. I am a Christian, and one who is passionate about taking God's Word for what it is and holding standards based on my understanding of the Scriptures. Now, many people, Christian or not, are quick to assume that if a Christian is truly serious about his/her beliefs and moral standards based on the Bible, then it's a "must" to vote straight Republican no matter what. Also, a few have gone as far as stating that "third parties" or "moderates" count as being "liberal" as it supposedly "gives votes to the enemy", in this case being those so-called "dirty, rotten, hopeless 'Demoncrats'" (as I've heard some say) and never mind the fact that the Republican party was once a third party (split off from the Whigs way back in the day), and because it was given a chance it is one of two main parties in the United States (but, that's a topic for another time).
That being said (after some open-minded analysis I have made in the past few years), I can certainly understand why Christians, for the most part, may favor Republicans, given a lot of the issues that pop up today regarding abortion and sexual sins that are so prominent today. As a Christian, I regard these issues as important based on my personal understanding of the Bible. However, I believe all sin is alike in the eyes of God (therefore, there is no "lesser of the evils" IMO), and there are other issues that come into play here, lending to my understanding as to why some Christians might not wish to vote Republican, for reasons that is between them and God, and they should not be judged or viewed as "less Spiritual", wisdom-lacking "lukewarm" believers at best and Hell-bound heathens at worst just for having a different perspective. I am registered as a nonpartisan, which means I don't cast my vote according to party, but who I personally feel, with his/her imperfections, can do the better job in leading the country down the right path, and open to the notion that third parties should be given a chance to prove themselves, and even though we know that they never make it, I don't believe it's a "wasted vote" (that's my opinion, anyway). Last year's election was a total mess from start to finish. Early in the race, I had my eye on Cruz and from what I've heard him say, he seemed like he was a good pick. I was pretty firm in casting my vote for him until I heard that he dropped out of the race, leaving only Clinton and Trump as the two main choices, and even reading up on the third party picks left me disappointed and at a loss for what to do. So... after some careful thought and prayer on my part, here's what I did. I went up to those polls, picked up that voting stick, and marked the "None Of These Candidates" option. Duty done, I returned home, relieved that was behind me, but concerned about the future of the nation no matter who eventually made it to the Oval Office (which, as it turns out, was Donald Trump).
Back on topic, I would not go as far as to say that the mere act of voting in Donald Trump as President could be called a sin; after all, I know some wonderful people, even some good friends of mine, who came right out and unapologetically said they were voting for him. I do not view them as any less because of it, and respect the fact that these people voted their conscience and honestly felt that they made the right choice. It's all a matter of conviction (Romans 14), and if they felt they didn't sin, then they didn't, and therefore, no reason to repent of something that they don't think is sin. What peeves me, however, are the people who seem to hold President Trump so high that it gives off the appearance of worshiping him as though he is immortal and infallible. Please note the key word seem, as I know people mean well; it's just the air that's being given off to me, and it just irritates me (and yes, I know I have to work on that). I also understand that anyone or anything can turn into an idol if not careful (and yes, the same can be said for Clinton or any other public figure or average person, living or dead), and that is what borders on venturing into "sin territory", and not the mere act of casting a vote, which, as I said, is a matter of conscience and personal conviction.
Also, I am sure there are a few who have voted for President Trump and are now regretting it. However, I have not heard anyone say such a thing, either because they never told anyone who they were voting for in the first place, or are part of a silent minority who said they were voting for him but secretly regret it and are disappointed in what is going on in the administration so far and choose to keep it to themselves. And to those of us who might question whether or not they might have sinned in casting such votes (no matter what side it is), then it's a personal matter between the individual and God, bearing in mind that, according to Romans 14:23, whatever does not come from faith is sin.
In conclusion, my prayers are daily with President Trump, that he makes right, fair, and just decisions while in Office and that he looks to God in his plans for leadership of this nation. And that same prayer extends to the past Presidents and all politicians, regardless of party, as I trust that God who is the Ultimate Ruler of the entire universe, has control of everything.
As always, I wish not to debate; I am merely offering my two-cents, well aware that some here may disagree with what I have put forth, either in part or in full. However, for those of you who do (and that's your right), please do so respectfully.
The best to you all!