The Republican Primary is tomorrow and the Democratic Primary is next week.  All of the candidates are seeking our votes.  How do I make that decision?

For many years I have used the same process and I believe that this is the way that a believer should approach an election.

It starts with the fact that I am a Christian.  As a follower of Jesus, my commitment to Him has an impact on everything that I do.  He is to be a priority.  I am to seek the things that build the kingdom.

That means that my commitment to Christ should be a factor in every decision that I make.  That is true for my marriage, my family, my job, my relationships, my time, my abilities, my resources and even my vote.

That is why I have a list of priorities in terms of issues when I consider voting.

1. The pro-life issue.  What someone believes about this issue is going to impact every part of their worldview and the way they respond.  I am looking for someone that is strongly pro-life.  I want it to be more than lip service.
2. Pro-marriage.  They need to support the Biblical truth that marriage is between one man and one woman.  They should also realize the importance of this issue to every part of American life.  This includes an awareness that we face a radical homosexual agenda trying to have a significant influence in our country.
3. A commitment to the Judeo-Christian ethic upon which our country was founded.  This includes an appreciation for the values upon which our country was built and a commitment to maintaining those values in the future.
4. Character and Integrity.  Not only in their public life but in their personal life as well.  You cannot have one set of values for public service and another for your personal life.
5. A sincere recognition that we were meant to be one nation under God.  We are a pluralistic society.  I do not expect or demand that every citizen believe as I believe, but I do have the right to consider a person’s spiritual walk a key factor in my decision.
6. A commitment to see America be the right kind of influence around the world.  There are times when we need to be tough and there are times when we must reach out to other parts of the world.

   There are a number of other issues that are important to us all.

7. National Security
8. Foreign Policy
9. Social policy – meeting the needs of people
10. Education
11. Economic Policy
12. Taxes
13. Health care
14. Immigration

The list could go on and on and these issues can change with each election.  They are not in any particular order.  Because the first ones are so important to me, none of these would probably be a make or break issue.
Because of the priority of these points, my decision is usually made before I get to many of the issues on the list.

I believe that if Christ is to be first in my life, I need to try and have an eternal perspective with a Biblical world view.  That is my responsibility and I believe that is best for the culture in which we live.  It is another way we are to be salt and light.

Many of you have heard me say this before.  I am sure the list could be adjusted, but this has worked for me for over 20 years.

When I feel that I have put the kingdom first, then win or lose, I have fulfilled my responsibility as an American and I can feel good about my vote.