Will My Vote Make Any Difference?

By Billy Graham, Tribune Media Services on Sep 23, 2008

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Q: I'm already sick of all the political commercials and speeches we keep hearing. I don't have much use for politicians, and anyway I don't intend to vote this year. Even if I did, my vote wouldn't make any difference. -- C.J.

A: I know it's easy to become cynical about government or feel that it's useless to vote because we think it won't make any difference. But I strongly urge you to reconsider and not give in to this kind of thinking.

After all, what would happen if everyone had this attitude? What kind of leadership would we likely get then? We need leaders at all levels of government who are men and women of integrity and wisdom, and we should thank God that we live in a country where we have the privilege of choosing our leaders. Millions of people in the world don't have that privilege, and we must never take it lightly.

Over the years, I've been privileged to know many men and women in government (both elected and appointed). The vast majority of them were capable and dedicated, and they often faced pressures and decisions that most of us could barely imagine. The Bible tells us to pray for "all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness" (1 Timothy 2:2). How different would our world be if we took that command seriously?

Pray as you prepare to vote, and pray regularly for all those who are in positions of political leadership. Pray also for our country in its upcoming elections. The Bible says, "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people" (Proverbs 14:34).

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Send your queries to "My Answer," c/o Billy Graham, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201; call 1-(877) 2-GRAHAM, or visit the Web site for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association: www.billygraham.org.