In just 12 days, Americans will be heading to the polls to elect the next president of the United States. In honor and respect for those who defend with their very lives our opportunity to vote, it is the clear responsibility of every American to vote. In honor and respect for the truth of God’s Word, it is the clear responsibility of every Christian to vote based on the principles found in the Bible. Proverbs 3:6 says, “In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” As we acknowledge the Lord in our political ways, here are three Bible principles that can direct us to Election Day and beyond:

Psalm 33:12: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.” According to the dictionary, to be “blessed” is to be “happy.” Americans are obsessed with finding happiness. Sadly, we are often looking in all the wrong places. No matter who sits in the White House in January, this great nation will not enjoy God’s blessings unless we acknowledge God and his word as supreme in our land. This guiding principle should also cause us to vote for candidates on every level who honor the truths of the Bible. A responsible Christian will not just vote based on party affiliation. He will research the positions of the candidate and find out if they are supported by biblical principles.

Proverbs 21:1: “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.” Government officials of every affiliation regularly reject the righteousness and holiness of God. This is demonstrated in laws, policies and court rulings. Fear and despair in the heart of Christians will not produce solutions. We must turn to and cling to the God of this universe. He is still the “king of kings, and lord of lords!” God is still in control and will accomplish his purposes. Take the time to read and study in the Old Testament of Nebuchadnezzar, Cyrus and other rulers who rejected God. See how God used them to carry out his will. Truly, “the king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord.”

I Timothy 2:1,2: “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.” Whatever politics or positions the next president may espouse, it is the duty of Christians to pray for those in authority. Too often, Christians destroy their credibility by responding to unscriptural political positions with hatred, rage and ugliness. While there is a scriptural justification for controlled anger, it should be tempered by the love of Christ and prayer. It would make a mighty impact in this country if God’s people would spend some serious time on their knees in prayer for “kings, and for all that are in authority.”

While God’s Word must guide our political thinking, let us make sure that we keep our focus on the Lord Jesus Christ and not on politics.

Timothy Benefield is pastor of Golden Valley Baptist Church. Sermon Notes is a column by local religious leaders.