Undoubtedly #Election2016 has flawed candidates with Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. Either choice will have significant downfalls and sacrifices for their parties. Voting third-party or write-in makes a statement but is highly unlikely to succeed in effect. I’m not saying such a vote should not be cast and perhaps should be, but an honest evaluation of reality is that one of the two major parties will be POTUS.

So what is a nation to do with flawed candidates? More specifically, how should Christians respond once the election is complete?

I do not intend to advocate which way, or whom to vote. My hope is more to awaken Christians and the church to what will matter for eternity. God’s kingdom is everlasting. Heaven and hell are permanent destinations. Therefore, Christians should place a greater emphasis and energy, time, talent, and treasure into saving the lost than on saving a political system. The Christian’s mission is far greater than a single country but extends internationally to “every tribe and language and people and nation” (Revelation 5:9). America’s mess must not hinder Jesus’ mission for the church.

So, as Christians, we must grow more sincere and sober-minded in our faith (1Peter 4:7). By grace, we must courageously live out the content and character of Jesus’ truth. We should persevere in standing and supporting the cause of justice for those the world devalues and degrades. We should engage culture as “salt and light” so people praise God more than applaud our service (Matthew 5:13-16). And yes, as a means to love our neighbors we should vote to God’s glory, and as able serve in the government arena for the good of others. Yet, we must seek to leave a legacy that goes beyond earthly politics but for eternal kingdoms (Revelation 11:15b).

Christian leaders, pastor’s, and those who have a voice that carries influence must reflect the example of the prophet Samuel with Israel. Samuel knew Israel’s king would be a flawed candidate. Samuel did not compromise, but instead called the nation to follow God. He knew their only hope would not be with a fallen leader but in a faithful Lord. Likewise, Christians must trust in God alone and not worldly powers or politics. Let us heed the word of the Lord or there is no hope for any of us.

“The Lord will not abandon His people, because of His great name and because He has determined to make you His own people. “As for me, I vow that I will not sin against the Lord by ceasing to pray for you. I will teach you the good and right way. Above all, fear the Lord and worship Him faithfully with all your heart; consider the great things He has done for you. However, if you continue to do what is evil, both you and your king will be swept away” (‭‭1 Samuel‬ ‭12:22-25‬).