Who are we fighting for?

What does it look like to make Christlikeness the highest value we seek in a leader? In a recent Substack newsletter, I shared how my values have shifted away from supporting political candidates solely based on the issues they represent. Now, I consider both a candidate’s character and their policies in deciding how to vote.

As a continuation of that conversation, below are some thoughts and questions to evaluate our political stances so they best align with who and what we’re fighting for—rather than who or what we’re fighting against.

Who will this candidate’s legislature benefit? Who will it harm? 

I understand the very real temptation to vote solely based on how it will impact me. While it’s not wrong to seek a candidate whose policies benefit us, I no longer see voting as a solely individualistic experience. The more I understand the Jesus’ heart and his call to look out for the interests of others, the more I realize the importance of my vote also benefitting others.

How would voting this way align with Jesus’ call to care for the poor, marginalized, and oppressed?

I’m increasingly aware of how different candidates, parties, and policies will affect those whom society looks down upon. While caring for the poor often becomes a politicized issue, the Bible mentions caring for the poor over 2,000 times, and Jesus is often found in the company of society’s outcasts rather than its elite. This deep emphasis for others is a core tenant of Christianity and runs much deeper than voting thoughtfully—but supporting policies that care for others is one way to live out this call.

Which do I most prioritize in voting: my political ideology or my faith?

In American Christianity, we’re often told that faith and politics are distinct and separate from each other, that we can uphold two very different sets of ideals. What isn’t often mentioned is that while they’re certainly different from each other, faith and politics are also inextricably intertwined. Our faith—our love for Jesus and people—must inform the way we vote. Although Christians may disagree on which policies best accomplish Jesus’ heart, we can still choose to let our faith guide our politics (rather than vice versa).

What am I afraid of when I think about a specific candidate winning? Am I voting solely based on that fear?

It’s a politically contentious time, and I’m sure most of us have fears as we consider the implications of different outcomes. However, if we’re voting solely based on what we’re standing against, rather than on promoting the flourishing of others, it’s possible fear is playing a bigger role in our voting than love.

What if voting in a way that fights for people is the way to vote in alignment with our faith?

If we fight for the wellbeing and flourishing of all people, we’re simultaneously promoting Christlikeness. Now, I realize no candidate or policy will solve all issues for all people. However, what if everyone who loves Jesus voted as an act of care and empathy for others? Imagine how much safer, kinder, and more loving our communities would look if we voted in advocacy for policies that benefit the marginalized.