Among the Christian community, especially within the conservative Evangelical movement, there has been an increasing focus on the professed Christianity of political candidates. Many believers feel a sense of trepidation or even refuse to cast their vote for a conservative candidate simply because that candidate has not expressly declared faith in Jesus Christ. While this perspective may stem from a place of genuine concern, it is ultimately myopic and unstrategic.

Consider this: numerous candidates have, over the years, declared their allegiance to Christian values. Take, for example, President Joe Biden, who has openly identified as a Catholic on numerous occasions. Yet, his policies and actions often stand in direct opposition to a Biblical worldview. This stark contrast between profession and practice highlights the flaw in judging candidates solely on their verbal affirmations of faith.

Now, with Biden having withdrawn his name from the 2024 presidential race, Kamala Harris has been crowned, in a most undemocratic way, the sole candidate for the Democrat party. She, alongside her running mate Tim Walz, represents a platform that embodies extreme positions antithetical to Biblical values. From policies promoting transgender propaganda in schools, such as tampons in boys’ bathrooms, to a blatant disregard for national security and border integrity, the contrast between verbal affirmations and policy outcomes is clearer than ever.

These positions don’t just conflict with Biblical values; they directly oppose the principles upon which our nation was founded. The complete disregard for our economic primacy, national borders, and even the very nature of truth itself—exemplified by the extreme social policies—signals a profound crisis in leadership.

On the other hand, we have Donald Trump, a figure who, while not overtly declaring himself a devout Christian or frequently professing faith in Jesus Christ, has consistently implemented policies that align closely with a Biblical worldview. Whether it’s his stance on religious freedom, the sanctity of life, or support for Israel, Trump’s actions have demonstrated a commitment to principles that resonate deeply with the Kingdom of God.

Unfortunately, far too many Christians have allowed themselves to become distracted by the obtuse and sometimes combative tone of Donald Trump’s soundbites and social media posts, forgetting the foundation and substance of both his policies and the results of his leadership. Scripture tells us, “You shall know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). This powerful truth reminds us that actions speak louder than words. A candidate’s policies and the outcomes of their leadership are far more telling than their religious declarations. A person who may not openly profess faith but upholds Biblical values through their governance is arguably more aligned with God’s will than someone who merely pays lip service to Christianity.

The insistence by some conservative Believers on an explicit declaration of faith as a prerequisite for their vote is not only limiting but also overlooks the strategic importance of leadership that aligns with Kingdom values. Throughout history, God has used flawed individuals to exert His principles on Earth. King David is a prime example—a man after God’s own heart, yet deeply flawed. David committed grave sins, including adultery and murder, but his zeal for Godly values and his humble recognition of his own shortcomings made him a vessel for God’s will.

David’s life teaches us that God can use imperfect people to accomplish His perfect will. It is not the perfection of the individual that matters, but their heart, their intentions, and the fruits of their labor. This lesson is vital for Christians today as we navigate the complex landscape of political leadership. We must ask ourselves not whether a candidate has openly professed faith, but whether their leadership and policies reflect the values of the Kingdom of Heaven.

Every Christian should be voting and voting early. A choice not to vote is a vote wasted. We are not voting to align with trendy narratives; we are voting from a perspective of “Your Kingdom come, Your will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.”

America stands at a tipping point. Our nation—a land entrusted to The Church of America to steward and influence—is at a precipice. The Church has stood on the sidelines for far too long, focusing on superficial declarations rather than substantive actions. Far too many Christians are erroneously focused on voting for a pastor instead of a leader who will strategically guide this Nation in a direction that aligns with Kingdom values.

In this critical juncture, we must wield our votes wisely, strategically advancing the principles that protect our nation’s moral and constitutional integrity. The stakes are too high for anything less. As the saying goes, “A vote is not a valentine. It is a chess move.” Voting is not about finding the candidate who makes us feel warm and fuzzy with their religious declarations; it’s about making a strategic decision that will advance the values of the Kingdom of God in our nation. It’s about recognizing that God can and does work through unlikely, imperfect vessels to achieve His purposes.

In this moment, let us focus not on outward appearances or verbal professions but on the fruits that our leaders produce. Let us seek leaders whose policies align with the values of the Kingdom of Heaven, even if they do not wear their faith on their sleeves. Our votes are powerful tools, and it’s time we wield them with wisdom and strategic insight, trusting that God is at work even in the most unexpected places.

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About the Author: 

Matthew Mattera is a retired naval officer with specialized expertise in advanced communication systems and information warfare, where he offered strategic advisement to the highest echelons of military leadership, shaping pivotal policies and strategies. With a profound understanding of both the physical and spiritual dimensions of warfare, Matthew has faced and overcome significant personal adversity, including the heart-wrenching losses of six family members to suicide and self-harm, including  his father and oldest daughter. 

As a published author and public speaker, he adeptly merges his extensive professional background with his deeply personal experiences to bridge the often-overlooked gap between Information Warfare and Spiritual Warfare. Deeply passionate about his nation which he served and the Church’s critical role as stewards and influencers, Matthew is dedicated to guiding The Church in reclaiming its foundational role in shaping society.

By leveraging his in-depth knowledge of cognitive influence impacts from his military career, he highlights how the strategies and tactics used in information warfare can directly inform and parallel those in spiritual battles, particularly in influencing thoughts, beliefs,perceptions – individually and across cultures at a profound level. His mission is to equip and empower God’s people to effectively counter ideological threats and enhance cultural influence. To explore this transformative approach to spiritual warfare and for opportunities to collaborate, you can contact Matthew at matthew@therexusnexus.com.