In the United States, Christians have the right to vote. “Millions [of people around] the world,” Billy Graham once reminded us, “do not know the meaning of this freedom.”
At the voting booth, believers can support leaders who are committed to serving the public and standing for the unchanging truths found in God’s Word.
Yet this freedom often goes unused. While turnout changes from one election to the next, research suggested that more than 40 percent of Christians did not vote in the last election.
Throughout his life, Billy Graham encouraged believers to make their voices heard in politics. “The Bible plainly teaches that we are to participate in good citizenship and that we are to respect men in authority,” he said, “and we are to pray for those who govern us.”
The evangelist considered voting a “God-given responsibility,” a means to “drive back the forces of evil.”
“Our world will never be perfect—not until Christ returns,” Billy Graham once told a radio audience. “But in the meantime, God wants to use us to overcome sin and establish a more just world for His glory.”
Do Midterm Elections Matter?
Voter turnout has been historically lower in the midterm elections, but they can shape the direction of the country as much as a presidential election.
Midterms are the opportunity for Americans to elect members of Congress, choose key leaders at the state level, and take a stand on important policies.
In these midterm elections, Americans are voting on:
- 35 seats of the Senate.
- 36 state governors.
- 435 members of the House of Representatives.
- State constitutional amendments, propositions, and referendums.
Billy Graham once made a case for staying involved in this process after receiving a letter from a man who was choosing not to vote. Billy Graham replied, “You say you’re disillusioned by what you see in politics today. But how will it be changed? Let me tell you how it won’t be changed: It won’t be changed if concerned people refuse to vote! It also won’t be changed if good people refuse to run for office, or if no one votes for them. In other words, staying away from the voting booth may only perpetuate the problems you see.”
Let God’s Word Shape Your Choices
Not every issue on the ballot this year has a simple answer. Christians should learn about the problems facing our country and then prayerfully consider how candidates’ positions align with Biblical values.
Rather than making choices based on popularity, personal preference, or cultural pressure, believers should analyze every topic in light of the Scriptures. When we allow God’s Word to guide our views, we have an opportunity to reflect our faith beyond our immediate circles, reaching our communities with His truth.
Franklin Graham said, “Should Christians engage in the political process? There’s a lot at stake in the coming midterm elections. Many issues that are considered political are actually moral issues. … I urge Christians to do their research, to pray, and to vote.”
“Who you choose to vote for has never been more important,” Franklin Graham went on to say. “Get out and vote. As Christians, we are to be salt and light in an ever-decaying, dark world.”
‘Which direction is America going to take?’
Ahead of the 1972 presidential election, Billy Graham offered advice that is equally true about midterms in 2026: “The future course of American history may well be decided this Tuesday. Which direction is America going to take? We stand today at the crossroads. I hope that every person listening to my voice will go to the polls next Tuesday, and exercise his or her right of franchise.”
Finally, with election day here, be faithful in prayer, both individually and with your church family.
“Let us beseech God to have His will done at this critical hour in history,” said Billy Graham. “Let’s ask Him to speak and to show us His will in this election.”
