One of the things that bothered me the most during the election — and, I will point out that it was through no direct fault of Barack Obama, but rather from his supporters — was the “rationalization” that voting against a black man was a vote in favor of racism.
What screams fowl in that concept is that it, in itself, promotes racism in much the same way that Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton, et al promote racism by fighting for their own twisted vision of “racial equality.”
For the sake of comparison, let me make a theoretical argument: Not voting for Sarah Palin equated to voting in favor of sexism.
Do you see the absurdity in that statement? Sadly, there are quite a few people in this country who fail to see the connection I just made. They see apples to oranges while I’m holding two Granny Smiths. And, sadly, the fear of being labeled a racist undoubtedly resulted in at least a few “Yes” votes for our currently sitting president.
Our lives are not to be run by fear, and it should not calculate heavily into our decisions. We are to approach God confidently through prayer in times of indecision, aligning ourselves and our will with His Will. Then, and only then, can we make decisions with confidence. If we can stand before God in confidence at that moment, why should our votes be cast in fear?
1 Peter 3:14-16: “But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened. But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.”
