Vote Wisely

Elections are coming. So, who should we vote for to serve the country? The Bible had emphasized unity with the believers, but the bible doesn't provide any specific instructions or direction on voting Principles. So, what are we gonna do, as one of the concerned citizens of the country who wants to live in a society where the laws and justice are in force?

Some of the scriptural passages that I include might help us understand biblical standards of the main issue or concern.

1. Unity in the Church: Scriptural passages like Ephesians 4:3-6 and Philippians 2:1-4 have encouraged us as Christians to live and value the unity and harmony, so that we should focus on our lives in a shared values and common goals.
2. Respect for Authority: Scriptural passages like Romans 13:1-7 and 1 Peter 2:13-17 encourages us to be obedient to authorities, the Government in general, even when disagreements exist.

However, it's important to consider -

• Diversity of Opinions: The Bible acknowledges that Christians will hold different perspectives on political matters. 1 Corinthians 1:10 encourages believers to maintain unity despite disagreements.
• Individual Responsibility: Christians are ultimately responsible for making their own decisions about who to vote for, based on their understanding of biblical principles and their conscience.

While the Bible emphasizes unity and respect for authority, it doesn't provide a specific mandate for Christians to vote in a unified manner or select one candidate for all. Christians should strive for unity in their faith and approach political participation with discernment and respect for diverse viewpoints. The very reason why I consider myself nonpartisan, or I don't know how you call it, so I consider myself neutral on each party. You would never see me post anything pros or cons on either side, but I may raise some points to consider sometimes, but not in a sense that I join my voice in just one party. 

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has encouraged its members to participate in political procedures like Elections and choosing a candidate where they believe that could lead a society towards good governance, and also to be informed and active citizens.

However, as the church policy shows, the Church does not endorse political parties or candidates. Members are encouraged to vote according to their own individual consciences and to consider candidates and issues carefully, based on gospel principles.

Here's a bit more from the Church Handbook about political neutrality:

"[The Church] does not endorse political parties, candidates, or platforms. Church facilities, membership lists, and other resources may not be used for partisan political purposes."

So, while the Church promotes the idea of being involved in civic duties, it doesn't direct members on how to vote or suggest voting in unity for a single candidate. It's all about informed individual choice! Check out more detailed guidance, you can explore on this link - 38.8.30 - Church Policies and Guidelines

The image above was taken from https://comelec.gov.ph article XXII under election offenses. Click on the link provided.

The Philippine Omnibus Election Code shows that the lack of proof of block voting doesn't mean it's illegal, and it doesn't prove that "Vote Wisely" is completely effective. The link between the two needs more study. Religion and politics should indeed hold their separate ways and principles. Science and religion can overlap, but politics should be its own thing. But, to be fair, shared ideas about service and love make it hard to keep them totally apart. We all know what service means, but we each choose whom and how to serve.

It's important to remember that supporting one candidate doesn't mean others on opposing sides are not better. Every politician could do the very same job since the country has the resources to do whatever project if it's necessary for the sake of service or for the people, but yes, of course, they have different ways of doing it. Staying neutral lets us support the current leaders while also being open to others' views or opinions. The country needs people who are willing to serve, no matter what their party is. Even though in some instances, some leaders may have let us down, our duty is to the country or for the people of that country, and it's not about politics at all. Ignoring other viewpoints could miss out a good ideas, plans, strategies, and even ways for improvement for the country. The country needs a balanced approach, considering everyone's opinions and excluding all biases.

Well, my point actually was to stop the Negativity to some political parties, they may have their own personal lives and personalities that might be negative to some, but by just sabotaging, undermining, and belittling, just simply lost the focus of service and love, rather envy, hate, lack of support, or self-control. We do have the right to choose someone whom we want to serve for the country, but it isn't necessary to take down the opposing party by allowing ourselves to dive into the fire. Let them serve if they want to, as long as they do it for the sake of service, and in the end, we maintain the balance in supporting those people who serve, and the country.

Moving on to end this article, the Philippine Omnibus Election Code - Article XXII states that prohibits anyone from intimidating those who are to vote or not. I don't think this might be helpful if everyone knows their responsibility, everyone has the right to serve and to raise their opinions.

Thank you and have a nice day -

Jerry N. Bustillo