Ronald Reagan gave his inaugural gubernatorial address in 1967, where offered some convicting thoughts we should never forget: “Perhaps you and I have lived too long with this miracle to properly be appreciative. Freedom is a fragile thing, and it’s never more than one generation away from extinction. It isn’t passed through by inheritance; it must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation, for it comes only once to a people. And those in world history who have known freedom and then lost it have never known it again.”
Freedom is not just given; it takes work, and it comes with responsibility. If we aren’t willing to do the bare minimum and get out to vote, then who will?
Pursue what you are passionate about. Get involved! Know your state representatives, school board members, senators, etc. Participate with your local school board, city council, and local conservative groups. I am proud to be a part of Young Women for America, an organization doing so much for this country. Are there specific issues that resonate with you? Join groups that address them! Imagine the impact that could be made if hundreds of dedicated people showed up to work toward educating the public, challenging liberalism, and financing Biblical candidates and issues.
We must participate in elections. The amount of Christians I have met who do not vote is incredibly discouraging, especially as someone too young to vote in this election. It is our duty, just as it was in Bible times, to pay attention to what is happening around us and let our light shine. We will never see “righteousness exalt a nation” if we aren’t willing to be a voice for righteousness. Participation is not optional! Our vote is an important factor in determining whether our nation will be blessed or cursed by God.
When God gives us something, He expects us to steward it and use it for His glory. When we, as Christians, choose not to participate in the voting process or proclaim that we do not care about politics, we have blood on our hands. Whether we realize it or not, we are declaring that the 70 million innocent lives that have been murdered in the womb isn’t our problem. We proclaim that the thousands upon thousands of children’s lives being destroyed through genital mutilation isn’t our problem. It is our problem if we love our neighbor. It has everything to do with us. You may not want to be involved in politics, but politics sure wants to be involved with you, your family, and your church. Your piety will come to a screeching halt when the government inevitably threatens to take your property, your right to privacy, or your religious freedom. It is our duty as Christians to vote biblically.
This is not just a political battle we are up against; this is a spiritual battle between good and evil. We will never end this chaos if we do not take a bold and vigilant stance on these issues. Let us echo the words of the prophet Isaiah when he heard the Lord say, “Whom shall I send? Who will go for us?” and replied, “Here I am, Lord. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8, NIV)
*Hannah Faulkner is a YWA Chapter President