Dear Friends,

The 2024 Election is quickly approaching and I feel it is vital to consider carefully our responsibility in the coming weeks. While the media would try to lure you into what seems like a popularity contest of personality and presence, the reality is that our vote should have nothing to do with these things; but rather be solely focused on who will best (or better) protect the values that God has established in his word.

Will every political race have a God-fearing candidate that aligns with every value we hold from scripture? Unfortunately, the answer is blaringly “No”! So, as God’s people, what do we do when we feel our options are bad or worse?

We vote our biblical values.

But what does that look like? Over the next few weeks, we will delve into Life, Family, and Religious Freedom to understand the biblical values of each and what it looks like to vote that biblical value at the polls.

Today, we delve into the value of life as presented in the Bible. Across its pages, Scripture emphasizes the inherent worth of every human being, reminding us of our purpose and the dignity bestowed upon us by our Creator.

Created in God’s Image

The foundational verse for understanding the value of life comes from Genesis 1:26-27: "Then God said, 'Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness...'"

This passage highlights that each person is made in the image of God, instilling an intrinsic value that transcends circumstances, status, or ability. Recognizing this truth encourages us to treat ourselves and others with respect and love.

Life as a Gift

Psalm 139:13-14 expresses the beauty of life:

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made..."

Life is a miraculous gift, crafted with purpose. The body, soul, and mind are all crafted in the womb, and it is so intricate and precious that the value and gift of it should lead us to worship the one who gave it. 

The Call to Protect Life

The commandment in Exodus 20:13, "You shall not murder," underscores the sacredness of life. This directive calls us to value life not only in terms of physical existence but also in promoting a culture of care and respect. It challenges us to advocate for justice, protect the vulnerable, and confront issues that threaten life. Since life is a precious gift that is crafted in the womb, the protection of it must encompass its created beginning to its natural end.  

Life in Christ

The New Testament emphasizes the transformative nature of life through Christ. In John 10:10, Jesus says, "I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." This abundant life is not just about existence but flourishing in relationships, purpose, and community. It reminds us of the hope and joy that come from living in alignment with God’s will. 

5. Compassion for Others

Throughout the Gospels, Jesus exemplifies compassion for those deemed marginalized or unworthy by society. His interactions with the sick, the poor, and the sinners reveal that every life has value and worth in His eyes. In Matthew 25:40, He teaches that whatever we do for the least of these, we do for Him, calling us to recognize and honor the value of every individual. 

Voting for Life

The Bible’s teachings on the value of life inspire us to embrace our identity as cherished creations of God. Voting our biblical values means we consider and then vote for the candidate that is more likely to protect your biblical values.

We must determine and vote for the candidate that will tip the scales in favor of our values rather than the candidate who tips them the opposite direction. Sometimes that candidate who tips the scales in the biblical direction doesn’t tip them as far as you’d like. But the truth is, I’d rather have the candidate in office that will tip them in the right direction rather than one who will ignore them altogether. This state and this country will have leadership whether you vote or not. But your vote can ensure that biblical values have a voice in the polls.

Your vote is your voice—make it count!

Use your resources to know the candidates on your ballot. And remember, when you go to the polls, you are voting for your values.