Voting in GE2025
As Singapore gears up for the upcoming General Election in 2025, the familiar chorus of political promises fills the air. Contenders passionately advocate for their visions, often contrasting their strengths with the perceived weaknesses of their opponents. Singaporeans face the critical task of discerning who will best champion their interests.
“Our Sacred Vote”
The “sacred vote” is a familiar term used to underscore the profound responsibility each citizen bears in a democracy. It highlights the inviolable nature and significance of this fundamental right, echoing the privacy assured by the “secret vote,” ensuring the freedom of choice for individuals.
Biblical Guidance for Choosing Leaders
How should Christians vote?
Christians should vote with a conscience informed by biblical principles, discerning how those principles apply to seeking the common good, not merely partisan victories.
The Bible is not a political handbook and does not directly address modern elections. Yet, there is enduring wisdom in it for evaluating those who seek leadership.
Of general relevance to effective leadership that we can use as a framework for evaluating candidates is Integrity and Selflessness:
- Leaders must prioritize the welfare of the people above personal gain.
- Philippians 2:3-4: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
There are of course other important principles about honest character, having a servant’s heart, dedication, trustworthiness, etc. It is a whole lot of criteria that weigh on voters’ minds.
Exercising Wisdom at the Ballot Box
The proliferation of “new media” combined with “traditional media” have really changed how we get and use information. Influential media tools let us see so much, but that also means we must be extra careful about what is true and what is not. Because information spreads so easily now, we need to be careful about trusting where it comes from and thinking hard about everything we see.
To make informed choices in GE2025, Singaporeans should:
- Listen Critically: Discern the substance of campaign messages, filtering out partisan rhetoric.
- Evaluate Candidates: A reasonable assessment of candidates involves examining their track records, proposed policies, and personal character. While evaluating the overall impact of their platforms on specific interest groups, local constituencies, and the nation, we should maintain a balanced perspective, acknowledging that no candidate or proposal is perfect and focusing on their key strengths and the potential for addressing deficiencies over time.
- Reflect on Past Outcomes: Learn from previous elections to avoid repeating mistakes.
A Collective Responsibility
The upcoming General Election is more than a routine democratic exercise. It is an important moment of collective decision-making, a sacred trust placed in the hands of every Singaporean. By embracing wisdom, objectivity, and a commitment to the common good, citizens can ensure their votes contribute to a future that reflects our shared values and aspirations.
A Prayerful Approach
Proverbs 16:9 says, “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”
As we contemplate campaign speeches, seeking God’s guidance in our decision-making process is paramount. May we pray for discernment, voting not only with our minds, but with hearts open to wisdom, understanding, and a deep commitment to the welfare of our nation, trusting that God’s wisdom will guide the outcome.
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