For me, sanctity of life is the #1 issue, whether it refers to abortion, stem cell research, or euthanasia - if there's not a respect for what God has established, there's no foundation on which the rest of the platform stands.
Another issue for me is sanctity of marriage - again, the family is foundational in our culture. Historically, cultures that don't value the family don't thrive, and ultimately don't survive.
Third, issues related to the war and terrorism - this is fairly uncharted territory for our generation. We've never felt the threat to our national security before. I want proven leaders who understand the balance of dealing with international politics, and yet still stand for what's right.

Nobody (or very few) is going to agree 100% with every issue on their party's platform. What people need to do is decide which issues are most important to them. As Christians, I believe we should be looking at which issues are most important to Christianity. Is the economy and healthcare really the most important? Those things will always be good, then bad, then good again. Rather, we should be looking at issues that are more in line with issues Christians should be concerned about. How about protecting life, protecting innocent people from evil, or not shutting God and his word out of the public eye? People can argue seperation of church and state all they want, but in my mind, denying God in "state" is denying God, period. He is, afterall, the creator of all of this. Shouldn't we give him the recognition he deserves? Instead of focusing on "worldly" things, Christians should be focusing on "heavenly" things.

For me, I suppose it is immigration as I live in Texas and sometimes it feels like Mexico is taking over. If they come here legally, I dont have as big a problem with immigrants...but the illegal ones are ruining our country and bankrupting us. They get more benefits and help than some of us who could use it at least temporarily. I've experienced this and I have seen it with my own eyes, it makes me so mad sometimes!!!
After that would be the economy and then a tie between the war in iraq, abortion, and the sanctity of marriage. I believe that we should finish the war in Iraq, we need to not back down.
I believe that a baby should not be taken and killed, especially if it could live outside the mothers womb. I believe a marriage is only between a man and a women. If you choose to have the same sex as a partner, you do not have the right to be married. I am not opposed to them having some benefits, because there are alot of people who have been together along time, more than some married couples, and they deserve some benefits - such as to be put on the other persons health insurance or life insurance policy, but not the privilege of "being married".
I think we as Christians have stood aside for to long and let others take over. The squeaky wheel gets oiled, kinda of thing. We need to stand up for those things we truly believe in and make sure our voices are heard and not worry so much about what others will say or do. We have to be heard or we will lose everything.

For me, the most important issue in any election is our freedom. It's what Jesus gave his blood for and it's what I hold dear to my heart and thank Him for everyday.

Many fine lines get crossed everyday - much of it turns into hypocrisy, much of it turns into fanaticism, much of it turns into a ludicrous amount of liberalism.

I thank God that He has given me His word, so that I may see past it all and try to get to the truth - for me and my kids. I don't need a politician to tell me the truth, and I truly believe God does not want that either.

This world just makes it so darn hard for anyone stay focused. And not one of us are perfect and without sin. Not one.

God bless.

For me the most important issues are national security (fighting terrorism) and foreign policy, Taxes, and protecting the rights of families and people of faith.

I live in California and we are facing a full frontal attack on religioius freedom in California by radical liberals promoting the pro-homosexual agenda. I am currently active in organizing activities to pass California's marriage ammendment because if it fails, churches in California will no longer be able to perform civil wedding cermonies without performing them for homosexual couples as well. Also, our children will be indoctrinated, beginning in kindergarten, to accept same sex civil marriage as the equivalent of God's sacred religious ordinance of marriage between a man and a woman.

I am very concerned about the attack by the Democrat Party on religious freedom and values here in California. Here in California the Democrat controlled legislature has passed several pieces of legislation that mandates the public schools to teach social agendas that directly conflict with the morals and values people of faith teach their children at home. Democrat appointed Judges in our courts in California have recently ruled that medical professionals can't decline to perform medical procedures such as artificial insemenation and abortions base on religious objections. Religious freedom in California is under seige and it is at the hands of the Democrat controlled courts and legislature.

Also, I am pro-life and I really can't support a candidate that voted 3 times to prevent a bill that would ensure medical care to babies born alive after an abortion. I can't get behind a man who believes that a baby is punishment and that doesn't believe that a baby that is born alive has basic human rights. That's why I am voting for John McCain/Sarah Palin, the only ticket that believes in the sanctity of life and freedom of religion!

#1 - Sanctity of life
#2 - Peacemaker (ability to cross party lines, open dialogue to other nation's leaders)
#3 - Long-range thinking re energy; (oil, wind, solar, environmental issues, etc.)

To me, national defense / national security is the number one issue. I just don't know if the Democrats will be tough enough on terrorists. The number 2 issue is the national deficit. I'm really concerned about this. Will our country be (figuratively) owned by China one day? Conservatives are just as bad as liberals at ignoring the deficit and actually making it worse. I'm not thrilled about raising taxes, but experts say that if we really want to get serious about the deficit, then we need to both cut spending and raise taxes.

1st Issue : For me, the most important issue is to have Christian Believers in Office who will do as 2 Chronicles 7:14
(NLT) says "Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land". We need Leaders who will take a stand for the Lord and will not be afraid of praying and speaking the truth and will not worry about offending anyone for speaking the truth. We can then get back to the basics as to what this country was built on and restore the Christian and moral values within homes and schools, and society.

2nd Issue: The focus needs to be put on rebuilding America and focusing on what is important for America. Saving American Corporations from being purchased by Foreign Investors and sending American jobs overseas. Focus on strengthening the American economy. American Families needs to know that our Leaders are concerned about the Health, Job Security & Welfare of the American Family. Our children which are the future of this Country can look forward to going to College and upon completion of College, finding a good job at a Major American Corporation.

3rd Issue: Terrorism...WOW! If the 1st issue can be resolved...then this country will not have to worry about "Terrorism". If decisions were based on the willl of God, then we will know without a doubt that God has a hedge of protection over us. As we rebuild this country, we must rebuild our military. We must restore strong security to this Country in order to protect our land and the Christian values that it was built on.

My 3 top issues?

National security--always the top priority of a government is to protect and defend its people.

Abortion & morality--I see groups and individual citizens as driving this issue by pressuring our senators and representatives to vote for what is right

The economy--our government sets a terrible example by spending itself into the kind of debt that would ruin a family. It's NOT the government's job to take care of everything and everyone. This is where the Church has fallen down on its job. We ARE our brothers' keepers.

Abotion and marriage are very significant issues and so far Mcain has by far the most certainty of christian values on these issues. Obama on the other hand is for infanticide and abortion and hasn't taken a strong stand for traditional marriage(man and women).

What I look for in a president is his stance on abortion. His stance on what his idea of marriage is and what is his take on terrorism. I think that Sarah Palin would be a good vice president, she has more experience than Obama or Biden. We can't judge her because her daughter is pregnant, only God can do that. We raise our children and pray that they will make the right choices.

I just read all the posts, and they were pretty interesting. I was a little concerned about the one that began: "For me, the most important issue in any election is our freedom. It's what Jesus gave his blood for and it's what I hold dear to my heart and thank Him for everyday. " I thought Jesus gave his blood for our atonement, not our freedom. The 'freedom' we have in Christ is not the political freedom I understand this post to be referring to. But maybe I'm reading it wrong.

I think the three most important issues in this election is the economy, foreign policy and health benefits. As a christian woman and a mother who works outside the home, I find it these issues critical to our fellow neighbor and country. Our current president is prolife, yet his poor leadership and stance on foreign policy has far threatened our american way of life and distrust overseas. It's a new time and new era. I think we all need to vote on issues beyond abortion.

To me the most important issue is that the President running our country is a man(woman) of God. If he/she is truly a Christian, the other issues should fall into place. Personally, I cannot support a candidate who is pro-choice or anti-marriage. Sarah Palin and John McCain have both made their stances clear on these issues. Health care, national security, and the environment are also important issues to me, but honesty & character are more important in a candidate. As for Sarah Palin's family life - I think everyone has struggles & "issues" in their personal lives that probably would not pass the scrutiny of the media. They have made a decision to support her daughter as a family, which says a lot to me about how she will handle unpopular problems as executive - by doing the right thing, not the easy thing.

Hi Cairyn,

Apologies for being misleading. Yes, Jesus died for our salvation. For that I am eternally grateful. Truth is really what gives us freedom, and I thank God for giving us the Word, which is Jesus which is truth. Yikes, I get too deep and my head hurts! LOL

Politics is corrupt by nature and so if I follow too much, I find myself getting caught up in the confusion of the enemy. I must remember to turn to Him for my answers to all these pressing issues and not the politicians. Only then can I make a sound choice.

Again, apologies for the confusion.

God bless.

I just don't understand how Palin can effectively juggle the VP job, a special needs infant, AND a teenager with international media coverage of her very personal moment of crisis. If the elder McCain has a heart attack in office, how can Palin deal with 24/7 international crisis along with a nursing infant? When my kids were infants, it was hard enough to manage an 8 hour job and a shower- and my kids did not have special needs!

I am pro-life and disagree with homosexual marriage. And I feel like some Democrats allow themselves to be pushed by special interests - no matter what they truly know is godly and right. But it is hard to solely base my vote on two issues. Why? As a woman who works with the urban core, it is also a sin to ignore the needs of the poor AND disenfranchised (health care and economy issues). Unfortunately, these areas are where the previous Republican party has not done well. This is a trying period because while I agree with them on moral issues, on others I see the opposing party as more empathetic versus elitist. So what to do?

One thing WE can't do is allow this to divide the body of Christ. No politician died for us - Jesus did. And no matter what each of us vote, we must make peace with each other so we can impact the world for Christ. For instance, as Christians we all know abortion is sin. An unbeliever is not going to care about that. As Christians, we must impact beliefs which will change behavior. That is done by being a loving person who tells biblical truth. I see so many Christians who think being holy is being mean. That draws folks away. We must work within our communities to teach truth, as we have a better reach to those around us than those in higher offices.

I wish I could combine the candidates into one GREAT president! The Democrats on working class and poverty issues...the Republicans on moral issues. Perhaps one day, we'll get that in a leader. It'd be nice.

For me, honesty in a leader is important. That will transfer to all relationships we have domestically and internationally.
I was saddened by the hypocrisy coming out from last weeks events. It is sad.

Sarah Palin might be a nice lady but she has no international experience and her political experience is limited to a small state. Her state is smaller than most US cities and she doesn't understand the issues confronting the whole US. How could she help with decisions at the level needed by the Presidency? Why is her party keeping her sheltered from the media where the regular people could get to know her better if she was ready?

I am also concerned that Palin spent a lot of time in an organization that wanted Alaska to leave the union of the United States. What type of national politician who cares about the country would do that?

If you look beyond the political ads, Obama and McCain are seasoned politicians who have high moral standards. Both have served at the Federal levels and dealt with issues for all States of the Nation. Both have international connections and understand the war situation and want to end it. While McCain had multiple affairs, neither of these men have this type of background.

They insist on keeping these standards even in the face of lies and attacks which is very impressive. This economy is sinking. I am very concerned that we get leaders who understand that not everyone is wealthy and needs help with health care and jobs.

We must balance our budget and two leaders who understand economic issues are critical.

Ending the war is very important to me so I will vote for the candidate who is seeking to bring peace out the current conflict.

It does open conversations about what is real Christianity with people who get confused by political pandering. It is very important to let people know that a political party is not a religious group, nor does it "represent" Christianity.

Christ is the Lord of peace. Accepting Christ as your Savior is the way to salvation, not registering for a political party. Legislating morality is not going to change human behavior. That's up to the individuals, churches, communities. The political atmosphere has started to let many (not all) churches off the hook for being the ones to watch over and teach these principles.

I just hope people will remember to look through real eyes and vote accordingly. There were good reasons to separate church and we need to get back to that. It is sad that everything has become so mixed up and distorted. I pray people will think things all the way through as they vote for the future of this nation.

As a christian woman, mother, daughter, sister and friend my greatest concern is that we are good and faithful stewarts over that which God has entrusted us with. "The earth is the Lord's and the fullness there of and all those that dwell within"

.1) Healthcare,
.2) Sanctity of Live
3.) Environment
4.) Ending the War In Iraq
5.) Economy

The most important issue has to be providing human rights to the unborn. This is a disqualifying issue. For Amy to suggest that Iraq (or for that matter any other issue) is more important is to demonstrate that she doesn't understand why abortion is wrong.

Abortion is wrong because we have selected one group of people and said that they have no human rights. Further, we have said that they can be literally chopped up by a rich and powerful doctor.

This is classic case of the weak and lowly being attacked by the powerful. And it is being done on a horrific scale. There are 3000 babies killed every day due to abortion in the US alone (the number worldwide is many times this). This adds up to more than a million every year. And this has been going on since 1973.

Think about having a 9/11 every day for 35 years. Then think about saying that health care is a more important issue.

Think about losing a million innocent lives every year in one war (against the unborn) and then arguing Iraq - where the loss of lives has only been a fraction of this - is more important.

There can be no more important issue for Christians until the unborn receive justice. Just as during WWII, a German could not say that, "although the treatment of Jews is bad, I have a variety of issues I care about". We can not say there are other issues that are more important. The loss of life and the abuse of the weak is on the same scale.

I know this sounds blunt but I agree with those that say 'you can not be a good Christian and support candidates like Obama.'

As a Christian what's important to me are the following:
While, I believe in the santity of life, I believe it for all life. What typically comes to the forefront is abortion, war and terriorism comes to mind as well. God said "thou shall not kill" and nor is it justified to do so in the defense of self. To keep Gods commandments, his word means that an abortion is not just nor is a war. And I pray constantly that we will find a right way out of this war.

Secondly, the economy is important. While it's bad, then good, then bad...there are people who suffer greatly in the country as a result. Building a strong economy and strengthening the American dollar is important. Many hard working Americans are 1-2 paychecks away from loosing everything.

Thirdly, foreign policy will be key as we move forward to building effective diplomatic relaltions. While we should be strong and aggressive, we should be open to diplomacy that build allies. While the Mid East poses a serious threat, poor relations with other countries, diminishes our authority and credibility. We need help from others to fight the war on terrorism.

Sanctity of life is of utmost importance to me no matter what. but thinking of this election i think the 3 most important issues are: 1- new, renewable energy sources. we CANNOT be dependent on other countries for our fuel. 2- National defense/foreign policies. Education. I love McCain's plan to put the power in the parents hands. For our tax dollars to be able to go where WE choose to educate our children. As a mother of 3 small children who will be school age in the next few years that's important to me. There are so many more important issues that go into my voting, but I fear for our country if Obama wins. That may sound extreme, but i don't want to live in a Socialist nation and i think Obama will lead us in that direction. And after hearing the speeches so far, I am excited for the first time to vote and to vote for McCain/Palin. If their speeches reflect their true nature we will be blessed to have them in office. They seem more genuine and real than any candidate I can remember since Reagan.

And I have to also agree with Cairyn. Jesus died for our sins. And for us to be redeemed in Christ. The men and women who have fought and died for our nation gave their blood for our freedom. Jesus gave his blood so we could have eternity with him...

I also just read all the post and find them all interesting. I would have to agree most with the post starting with "Nobody (or very few) is going to agree 100% on every issue with their party's platform.." I would agree that as Christians', we have an obligation to view the world the way Christ would view it, as best we can. If we as a nation have Christ in the forfront, than a lot of the issues, economy, healthcare, U.S. budget, global warming, and issues like this, will fall into place. Killing of life, whether that is abortion or our own military personnal who choose to fight for our freedom should be weighed greatly by Christians. Taking the trinity out of so many arenas is hurting our nation because He is not the leader. Without Him, we WILL fail. Christians need to search their hearts, be confident to put their "heavenly" beliefs first, and vote accordingly. If Christians do that in this country where Christianity is the leading faith, we would see Him move in great ways. My prayer is that we as a nation get back to what is on our money "In God we trust" because that is exactly what this specific country was built on and was meant to continue to build on. I am not a great believer in politicians as a whole, they always seem to have personal agendas, but I will vote for the only duo that holds so many Christian values Mcain/Palin.

I used to believe very strongly that outlawing abortion was the solution but now I believe the fight to overturn Roe v Wade is a diversion from the underlying issue--which is the economy.

Abortion would happen less often if the economy was strong, if unmarried women didn't get pregnant, and if health care was universally afforable.

How come Sarah Palin cut funding to educate and to house pregnant teens in Alaska? (the state with one of the highest teen pregnancy rates)

If someone's house is being foreclosed, they might not be able to have a baby.

We need a president who can create an environment in which fewer babies are killed or die in poverty (why does the USA have one of the highest rates of infant mortality in the developed world?)

Remember that expression, "what if they had a war but nobody come?" What about, "what if abortion was available but nobody wanted one?"

Bush ruined our economy. McCain will pull us further down.

I was very surprised and somewhat dismayed at some of the opinions expressed by the women in RED,RIGHT & BLUE in the September/October issue. One of the roundtable participants stated that she "never wants to be a two issue voter as many Christians are". One stated that she "was disturbed to hear the pastor call her faith into question because of her political identity". Why is she surprised if she supports a party that is diametrically opposed to the teachings of the Bible? I am concerned about the environment. We must be good stewards of what God has given us. I am concerned about the poor. Jesus tells the church to take care of the poor. I am concerned about the war and terrorism. But we all will have to stand before Jesus one day and give an account of how we voted. And voting for someone who supports gay marriage and abortion at any cost, muchless one who supports the heinous act of partial birth abortion where nearly full-term babies are allowed to die alone in hospital utility rooms, cannot be justified no matter how hard you try. Not even if you think the rest of his policies are great. Can we in all honesty call our selves Christians if we vote for someone who supports evil that Scripture opposes?

If we made "Sanctity of Life" our #1 priority always, then eveyrthings else will follow, how we see the conflict in the Middle East (with regards for sanctity of ALL human life). How we view the environmental issues (with regard to ALL life period). How we view the illegal immigration issue (we are all immigrants in this life and "visitors" as well until we are called home). Maybe if, as Christians we really did start to respect "life" and ALL it's forms none of the others issues would even exist.

I am voting for Obama. I wanted to vote for him anyway because he stands for many things I believe in. I feel he is intelligent and comes from where my kids are coming from. A single parent home. Yes, I agree abortion is wrong for myself, but I would never tell my TEENAGE daughter who WOULD NOT BE ready to have a baby. It would be her decision. Whatever word you need. But I have no right to choose for someone else. This world already has millions of children that are dying, hungry, being abused and mistreated. How dare I tell a woman that she has to have a baby, when the possibility is there that that baby will be mistreated because she/he wasn't even wanted. In the bible it says every sin is equal to another. So an abortionist is no more in jeopardy than me who is a gluttonist when it comes to food. Or a hypocrite as we all are at some point. I refuse to vote for someone over abortion, because even though I agree it is wrong, I just can't choose that for someone else. This campaign is about issues for our nation that are threatening to destroy us. Look at our defecit, look at our employment rates, look at our beloved soldiers coming home from war completely messed up and in need of care they don't get. Look at our homeless, CHILDREN on the streets with no one feeding them. The world will never respect life because it is governed by evil! Satan is in charge of all the earth until the LORD returns. And life will be destroyed until that day because Satan is the king of DEATH. I just pray that God will have mercy on all of us. We are all to judgemental of others. And as soon as you judge you have taken God's position as your own. He is the only JUDGE. We all need to learn to LOVE. Then maybe there will be RESPECT. Sorry if this disagrees with many of you. I have to look at FACT, and who is better fit. If McCain died tomorrow; would we really want that woman who was so quick to say (community organizers were basically bogus - our whole nation was built on community organizers) awful and degrading things and belittle not only her opponent but many of Americans in the White House. She wanted to seperate from the United States!! AFTER, she asked for 25 million dollars to help feed the moose walking around her community. I don't. I know this sounds harsh, but it seems everyone is confused on what is important. I do not believe Mccain intends on abolishing the law written for abortion. He has also voted several times pro-choice. I don't need another liar in the white house. My Family Won't Make It. I don't have lots of houses I can jump around to.....

A baby dies every 43 hours in Memphis, TN--over 200 infants a year. Where is the respect for human life? Will I stand by Jesus and admit I voted AGAIN for an administration who created this nightmare?

I think the most important thing that Christians have to remember is that God is not a Democrat or a Republican. We can't let the enemy divide Christians with partisan bickering. Also, I don't think it's really possible to be a devoted follower of Christ and a politician at the same time. There is too much corruption in politics and they will almost always have to compromise their beliefs. I think we need to be in prayer and see who God leads us to vote for. Its sad that it seems to always come down to the lesser of two evils. I even considered not voting at all this year because I'm so frustrated with politics as usual.

I'm dismayed by how many Christian women don't look beyond the surface with Sarah Palin. She has more experience than Obama or Biden, as one poster said? Come again? On the other hand, I agree with the poster who said the economy is a "life" issue. The environment is a "life" issue. Helping those in need is a "life" issue.
Another comment. Remember what Colossians says about our conversation being grace-filled and seasoned with salt? How does Palin's mean-spirited convention attack fit that?
Just asking.

I agree w/MDs post that addressing the underlying reasons behind abortion is a more effective way to combat the problem than simply outlawing it and assuming it will just go away. (We seem to be forgetting about the self-inflicted ones prior to Roe V. Wade.) I also agree that while it is the church's job to help those in need, the government shouldn't be absolved of its responsiblity to its less-fortunate citizens either. This seems (to me anyway) to be in keeping with Jesus' command to love our neighbors as ourselves.
So for me the economy is right at the top along with healthcare and energy policy(beyond just gas prices). I think they're all connected.
Lastly, I also think that as citizens and Christians we ALL need a big dose of humility and to remember that neither Republicans nor Democrats are totally in step with God. We all have our reasons for voting and believing the way we do. We're asked to love and support each other, not judge and not to browbeat others into accepting our beliefs or condemn them when they don't.

When I became a Christian, the one thing I feared was being "lumped" in with so many closed-minded hypocrits as per some of these postings! The fact that our country is going down the tubes economically, that we're bogged down in another war that we never had any business in, that we borrow money from China to buy oil from the Middle East, etc, etc. . . and yet Karl Rove and the GOP counts on the Christian "Lemmings" to forget all the mess they've made and that McCain has supported 90% of the time,and just focus on Pro-Life & anti -gay. Well 1. NO ONE IS FOR ABORTIONS!!! NO ONE WANTS ABORTIONS, BUT UNLESS YOU ARE WILLING TO FINANCIALLY HELP SUPPORT EVERY CHILD CONCEIVED IN THIS COUNTRY, INCLUDING ALL THE ONES CONCEIVED BECAUSE NO ONE IS ALLOWED TO TEACH HOW NOT TO GET PREGNANT IN THE FIRST PLACE, THEN HOW CAN YOU BE SO JUDGEMENTAL ABOUT SOMEONE ELSE DECIDING IT'S NOT RIGHT FOR THEM, which leads to point #2. ALL THE PROBLEMS WE FACE, AND WHAT OTHER PEOPLE DO W/THEIR PERSONAL LIVES IS AN ISSUE?! THIS USE TO BE THE GREATEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD - NOW LOOK AT US! OUR LEADERS ARE DESPISED AND OUT OF TOUCH, & THIS ELECTION IS TOO IMPORTANT.IF YOU WANT THIS COUNTRY TO GET BACK TO BEING A LEADER IN THE FREE WORLD, THEN THERE'S ONLY ONE QUESTION - ARE WE BETTER OFF NOW THAN 8 YEARS AGO, OR ARE YOU FINE W/THE WAY THINGS ARE RIGHT NOW. dO YOU WANT THE U.S. TO BE THE PLACE THE WORLD TURNS TO, OR WOULD YOU RATHER CHINA, RUSSIA , OR IRAN BECOME THE SUPER-POWERS OF THE WORLD? GET EDUCATED & GET IT RIGHT, AMERICA!

Reading the comments on this page I’m disapointed that many fellow evangelicals will blindly follow the McCain-Palin path, just as the Republicans schemed on one issue! I am an evangelical woman and I will be voting for Barack Obama.

Obama is my choice because he will start to change America in the ways we need; strengthening our economy, cutting the national deficit, ending war, giving tax breaks to the middle class who really need it and taking care of the “least of these”. Those are the issues I prioritize and it is rightly noted that they will reduce the number of abortions.

You know the thing I can't forget or get out of my mind is Pat Buchanan's statement that "John McCain will make Gearge W. Bush look like Ghandi!" I've heard McCain on the campaign trail during the primaries "My friends there will be more wars." Then his joke when he sang "bomb, bomb, bomb, Iran." Then I heard that the Republicans told him to tone down his warmongering for the convention. His Iraq policy will call for a draft. And that means our children and grandchildren. I don't believe McCain makes us safer I think he will make us less safe. His choice of Palin who has been given 2 pre-written speeches total about an hour on the national scene is frightening. I don't think she is qualified to be VP with our children in Iraq or if McCain invades Iran. McCain wanted Lieberman because he wants to invade Iran. At the RNC Lieberman said the only reason he was there is because he believes in McCain's foreign policy but all other issues he is a Democrat. This year I am going to dissagree with my fellow Christians and vote for Obama/Biden because they will not be so hasty to get us into wars. Obama and Biden have said they personally don't believe in abortion but do believe in choice for women. You know I don't believe "pro-life" should be our only agenda when the world is so complicated. As Obama/Biden put it "Let's come together and lessen anybody's need for abortion. I have come to realize that war takes the lives of our children and I'm really at odds as to why we are so pro-life and then we are also so pro-war it's making less sense to me. Until I hear McCain say he is anti-war I do not trust him. Also I heard a lot about him as POW war hero, but he isn't the only one as he makes it out to be. And on the news I heard that the What looked like vets on stage were actors. There are plenty of real vets out there so why did he do that? Anyway I don't trust McCain and being a Cristian doesn't make me automatically trust him more just because he picked Palin who I know nothing about neither do the rest of us, suddenly she's the rock star? I thought McCain was telling us don't vote for the Rock Star, I'm confused, I'm confused about McCain/Palin. Obama has been steady and respectful this whole time McCain has not.

Thank you all for posting, I really thought I was the only Christian woman losing my mind.

Just let us all remember that whomever we choose, to stand together! Politics will always be a place of corruption. I know my choice for the election now, but I fought it hard because I want to uphold the value of life. I do and I always will - no government will ever be able to change that for me and my kids.

Palin threw me overboard and I was in a frenzy. A MAJOR frenzy. Let me just throw this out there. It is examples like this that turn many, many people vehemently away.

In refocusing and turning my prayers and thoughts back over to the Lord, I calmed myself down and now I can see clearly again.

2Corinthians 10:5

"Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ..."

Bless you all... you are most certainly all gifted with passion, compassion, zeal, great understanding and insight.

Let's not let the enemy get the best of us!

:)

I've read the discussion on politics in the September/October magazine and was intrigued enough to come online for the first time.

I'm in agreement with those who support the right to life and the sanctity of marriage between a man and woman. Those are important issues to me. I believe we as a country must lessen our dependence on foreign oil and fully support the endeavors for new sources.
The issue of immigration is important in that we need to follow the laws of this country and not support those who don't.

My views here are based on my spiritual beliefs. War has always been a necessary evil because of greedy, power-hungry humans - even in Bible days. I grieve that soldiers must lose their lives and/or physical/mental health for it. Yet I equally grieve for those who don't ask for their own physical /mental disabilities or poverty or abuse by family members, etc. - the list of things we must bear is long.

As a Christian woman, wife, mother of 2 (one child with Asperger's), I pray I can make an informed decision. I can choose in this country of freedoms to vote for who I want.

With all this before us (and a hurricane heading for my area of the world, a mother looking at the possibility of metasticized breast cancer and numerous
personal battles, triumphs and joys), I try to keep this perspective. Jesus could come again at any moment. Until that time, however, I try to live "One Day at a Time, Sweet Jesus".

It has been a hard 8 yrs, but no one counted on 911 that changed our lives and focus so drastically. I don't think Bush can start a war all by himself - he doesn't have that kind of power- many thought it was right at the time(Dem and Rep). But the war has put us in a bad way economically. Many American jobs have been lost and companies shutting down - - many of our companies had already shut down or moved to Mexico before these 8 yrs began - it didn't start with this administration. There are many policies that need to be changed - reform welfare - border control-( lets bring people here legally) no tax breaks for American Companies moving to Mexico- bring our Companies back home. The moral decline in this country started long, long ago. I don't know a Christian that doesn't care about the economy,environment(most I know recycle and are conservative in their energy use) and the poor ( most I know give and give of time and resources to the poor) and to my knowledge welfare,food stamps and many other government programs for the poor are still in place. No one I know wants people to be hungary and not have things they need. No one I know wants to ban services for our poor. Our church is working hard to get a local food bank built up as we speak. So Christians are not just 2 issue voters, but when abortion and marriage- as God intended- are very important to them they vote the way their heart and the way they think God is leading them ( same as others do- Dem,Rep,and non-christians) I teach a abstinence program in a public school and believe me they know how to get pregnant and how not to get pregnant( protection is given free through different organizations) - these kids are a lot more educated and aware of sexual issues than in my day. They just think it is the norm. to start having sex the minute you want to not thinking of the consequences. Our songs, media,movies,and TV tell them so. I would not want my daughter to have an abortion just because she isn't READY for a baby - adoption is an option. There we go again many, many things need changing. I'm going to ask the Lord for guidance in voting who he wants - but I don't think I can just get over or disregard the abortion issue......

WOW!!! I can't believe I have to be called a closed minded hypocrite and blind just because abortion is important to me.

Tina, are you kidding? Palin has more experience than Obama or Biden? U.S. Senators, one of whom has been in the Senate for over 30 years?! You probably should have checked your facts before posting such a thing.

May said: I think the three most important issues in this election is the economy, foreign policy and health benefits. As a christian woman and a mother who works outside the home, I find it these issues critical to our fellow neighbor and country. Our current president is prolife, yet his poor leadership and stance on foreign policy has far threatened our american way of life and distrust overseas. It's a new time and new era. I think we all need to vote on issues beyond abortion.

Ditto that for me.

After reading the comments: I am neither a Democrat nor a Republican, but vote based on who I think will do the best job... I have to say, thank goodness there are intelligent women out there who see past the glamour of Sarah Palin (who is NOT running for president by the way) to her mean-spiritedness, hypocrisy, and lack of experience. I'm heartened by some of the actual analysis and discussion in these comments. Yay for people who are not sheep to the Religious Right and the Republican Party!

To the previous posters that have highlighted abortion as their priority issue, I think we need a broader perspective on the issue of life. I am Christian and am pro-life too, but not in the sense that the label tends to be used politically. I believe we should consider life at all stages, not just restrict it to a fetus in the womb. We need to ask ourselves why there are so many abortions taking place in this country compared to other countries that are supposedly "less moral" than we are. In Denmark, where abortion is legal and which has an extensive sex-ed program for their teens, the per capita abortion rate is one sixth that of the US. Across Europe, the picture is the same where abortion rates are much lower, in spite of the easy availability of abortions countrywide. Also, abortion rates are much lower in the north east parts of the US than they are in the bible belt. This is counterintuitive and suggests that simply claiming to be pro-life without developing programs that support life at all its stages is disingenous.

In many developing countries where aborition is not legal, many young women die procuring illegal abortions, so it is erroneous to assume that by making abortion illegal, we will eliminate the demand for it. Or is it that the lives of these young people that may have made a mistake are less valuable than that of a fetus?

While families should teach their kids the importance of abstinence, teens should still be educated about different contraceptive methods. Kids make mistakes all the time and parents should do what they can to help mitigate the effects of the poor choices made in the heat of the moment.

Life does not begin at conception and end at birth...it begins at conception and ends at death. So I hope that people's choices will be informed by the party that does the most to promote social justice. Based on the statistics from Europe, I don't think it would be too far-fetched to say that this would be a more effective tool for reducing abortion rates than overturning Roe vs. Wade.

What a bunch of hypocrites. You talk about "sanctity of life", when it comes to embryos, stem-cells, and irreversibly catatonic. But dropping bombs on hundreds of thousands of Muslims? That's OK, right? After all, we need their oil! And hey, there's millions of abortions every year, right Anna? That makes it OK! We could kill another few hundred thousand without having to worry!

And about the "homosexual agenda"? Guess what, there's no such thing. Homosexuals aren't interested in making more homosexuals, even if they could. And opposing gay marriage is an act of naked bigotry, no matter how you try to dress it up with some absurd euphemism like "protecting marriage"

Oh, and as the Republican VP candidate has so effectively demonstrated, abstinence-only sex education does. Not. Work. It's state-mandated ignorance, nothing more, and it's proven to lead to more unwanted pregnancies and therefore, more abortions. You can't be anti-abortion and in favor of abstinence-only sex-ed. It's one or the other.

I think what is not completely understood is the strong connection between poverty and abortion. When the economy is better, when more people have access to good jobs and healthcare, abortions decrease. Abortions started decreasing in this nation in the 90's while Clinton was in office. They've continued to decrease the past 8 years, but not as dramatically under Bush. Brazil has the highest abortion rate--there abortion is illegal and the gov't turns a blind eye towards the poverty the women who get them live in. The democrats have said they want to reduce abortions--hold them to it! Republicans have promised for years to outlaw abortion--why didn't they when they had a majority in Congress and a pro-life president? Whose chain is getting yanked every four years for the votes? I voted pro-life at the state level once--and it was an absolute disaster. The worst public official ever to be elected, total decimated the office he was placed in, making a mockery of it and we still have abortions in this state. But he got an A+ from all the pro-life groups. I'm not falling for that trick again. I will vote for the economy and healthcare and the end to an illegal war--how many innocent women and children were killed in Iraq? Is that pro-life?

The Bible tells us all leaders are appointed by God; therefore, we need to put God first so He can bless us and our nation. Thus, when we choose to elect a person of God, someone with Christian morals (protects sanctity of life and sanctity of marriage) God will reward His people and protect His creation. Fear of God must determine our voting decision not fear of war, healthcare, social security benefits, poverty, poor economy, etc.

Honest reform of the congress and washington in general.

Energy, getting free of forign oil

Health care but not government controled

New supreme court judges

Wow, there are alot of heated conversations going on here! I don't think it is fair whatsoever to attack Sarah Palin because her daughter is pregnant. Bristol was old enough and made her own choices. As a parent you do the best you can to train your children up the way you believe is best, and when they are older THEY will choose whether to heed your advice or do their own thing. Sarah Palin does have more experience in the way of actually DOING things. Maybe her presence has been shorter but she's done a heck of alot in the time she's been around! And it's true, she's not running for president but I think she could definitely be the first woman president in America. And I think that it's funny in a time when we are all about women being equal to men and being able to do what men do we want to say because she has kids she can't/shouldn't do it? We can't judge that. Yes her son has special needs and she will have to make sure he gets the care he needs, but her husband has taken indefinite leave from his job, so their children are being cared for by their father when she is working....I just don't think it's fair for us to judge and i'm a stay home mother of 3 and could never leave my kids for a full time job. but it's not me to judge. I want to choose on who is best qualified not on who is their baby sitter.

No matter how great and thriving our economy is there will always be plenty of people who want an abortion no matter how "educated" they are. Let's face it, most of the people who have "unwanted" pregnancies are not so because they didn't know better.

Aside from Palin (whom I believe was the best choice for McCain) after watching the conventions and hearing the speeches I truly believe McCain is the best choice to be in the White House. If you didn't see his speech I encourage you to watch it. It wasn't as energized and witty as Palin's but it solidified my decision to vote for him. He is a true American, a true leader, has more experience than Obama or Biden, and I believe will strive to unite the parties instead of keeping them divided as they are. And most of all I trust him. I DO NOT trust Obama or his motives or intentions or "plans". He gives a good, inspiring speech, but that's about it. Get him away from a teleprompter and he can barely answer a straight question with a straight answer. There's alot of stuttering and beating around the bush. I just don't trust him.

And I also believe we need to be careful not to vote for change based on political party. We need change but i think alot of people think that means we need a democrat instead of a republican. It's not that easy. McCain is not Bush. And Obama isn't our savior from "8 years of affliction".

And in finishing. Thank you Jesus for being above all this and being the one ultimately in control. May we not forget who blesses this nation and may we trust you no matter who wins.... We can all at least agree on that :)

I get really, really frustrated when I continually hear christians say that abortion, or sanctity of marriage is there number one issue for voting. We should be addressing issues that impact people's daily quality of life such as jobs, health care and the war. To me this is much more important than trying to regulate someone's PERSONAL decision to either have an abortion or choose to be with someone of the same sex. We've had an administration for the last 8 years who hasn't been concerned with any of things like jobs or healthcare, and we see where that's gotten us.

We need to be careful that political issues do not divide the church. Both political parties need Christians to act as salt and light within their party and while politics influence life, God ultimately is in control.

The President is only one person, the Senate only 100 people, and the House only 435 individuals. While they hold power, they answer to the 303+ million other people in this country and we need to let them know what we want. Our opportunity to make a difference starts at the voting booth, but doesn't end there.

In addition to voting we need to volunteer for causes we support, whether helping women without resources so they can care for children or using less gasoline so wars won’t be fought for oil. We can tutor adults who might get a better job if they knew how to read, tell companies that we decided not to buy their product because they don’t offer their employees healthcare and buy locally made products instead of imports. If we share the Gospel and pray we may even see a spiritual revival that reduces crime as happened in England a century ago.

It is easier to complain than to volunteer and easier to write a post on a website than to write an elected official or letter to the editor. We should act and encourage our friends and relatives to make positive changes as well, but our prayers and shared actions in our community can influence change more than any candidate.

No one of us can fix any of the big issues alone – not even the President.

Well, alot has been said on this post.. Sounds like Shannon is tottally ignorant of what the real issues are.. Obviously someone pinched a nerve.. We are not after the middle east oil.. They will let us buy as much as we want. We dont have to fight for it.. We are trying to prevent terrorism from spreading from that breeding ground to our ground. There is much more about the Mideast than oil. ( yes, I am a veteran ) .. As for the homosexual agenda... Yes, there is one... Out of it comes laws that make it a special privialge and a protected act, that they FORCE others to accept or be penalized.. Another attack on our beliefs.. THere are court cases to prove it.. another note that many of you that are voting for Obama need to think of.. Over time, during typical democratic majorities, ( with a few exceptions, and some republicans are also guilty ) you will see our christian privilages taken away.. Look at the current issues in California ( democratic majority ) . A case is being fought there because they dont want to give kids from christian schools entrance to college, because of the basis of their belief in God... ( see ACLJ's web site ) Obama may have attended a christian church, but his values speak otherwise. Because you go to church, dosent meam you stand for Jesus... I am not saying Mc Cain is a better leader, but if you stand for Jesus, you need to vote for the one that stands with Him... Even King David had his sins, yet David stood for God, and God blessed him well for it... By the way, I vote for the one that stands for Christ, weather black or white, male or female, Rep. or Dem..... McCain is the least of the evils...

The top three issues for me would be healthcare (48 million people without in the 'great land' is ridiculous); the war in Iraq (because of the sanctity of life AFTER the womb), and economy (quality of life after the womb). I feel that as Christians, we need to go back to the basics of what would Jesus have us do? His top issue was always, "Love your neighbor as yourself."

AMEN to what both Kammy and Joe said. so well put. Thank you both for your comments.

I am tired of all the lies and deception surrounding this election process. I am voting for Obama/Biden.
I am a Christian, as is Senators Obama and Biden.
Obama will restore the American promise. He was raised with his Mother's Kansas values and he is driven by the Christian faith

On the Economy, Obama is going to offer tax cuts to companies that keep jobs here in America, and tax those who send them overseas.

On women's rights, Obama co-sponsored the Federal Fair Pay and Restoration Act and Subscribes to Pay For equal work as Fundamental. He sponsored legislation to overturn a Supreme Court decision to make it harder for women to challenge pay discrimination. MC CAIN Opposed legislation that would help women achieve equal pay. He even suggested that women get paid less because they need more education and training!

I believe,as does Obama that a women should have the right to choose. Obama said " it's never been more important to protect a women's right to choose. McCain wants to overturn Roe vs Wade, which would not protect a woman if she became pregnant through sexual assault or incest.
Obama passed a law requiring that emergency medical services for sexual assault survivors incluse coverage for emergency Contraception. McCain opposed requiring insurors to provide the
same level of coverage for birth control that they do for other prescription drugs.

Obama has fought to increase education and awarness of cancers that affect women. McCain
voted AGAINST coverage to pregnant women and infants. And opposed $214 Million for Breast Cancer research. McCain also voted against extending Medicaid coverage to pregnant women and infants up to1 year of age with incomes below the poverty line. He also voted AGAINST transferring $214 million from the defense department to fund breast cancer research.

And last but not least, Senator Obama has a plan approved by our Joints Chief of Staff and the leader of Irag to bring our troops home honorably withing 16 months of his taking the oath of office.

As Christian woman, there is no comparison between the two candidates. I am voting with my conscience and after a lot of research into my decision. Obama/Biden are the ones who will restore America. Thank You

My top 3 issues would be abortion, sanctity of marriage between one man and one woman and the war.

As a mother of 2 young children I am very concerned about the homosexual agenda. The fact that one of the issues would be for gay curriculum being taught in public schools is scary. I can't even imagine what kind of curriculum this could be? What are they going to discuss with my children? It is appalling. If this goes into affect, are they going to present a heterosexual curriculum as well? Truly we are in the end times...

Abortion... Someone spoke of loving your neighbor as yourself. What about the unborn child. We all have a desire to live. Even a mother who could die in childbirth. But guess what? If that baby could speak it would say..."I want to live." Abortion is not love.

War - It is always a sticky issue. War is never good. The Bible says there would always be wars. There must be a resolve. We can't just let our troops be out there indefinitely.

As far as our economy. God is our Provider. As Christians, we shouldn't be looking to man for provision. We should seek to uphold God's laws. One compromise and the next thing you know someone will have the idea of killing off the elderly because they have become "costly". Where does it end? Or maybe the child that has downs or a handicap? If you legalize homosexual marriage it won't be too long before polygamy wants its rights too.

I think we have forgotten what happened to the Israelites when they asked for a king like the other pagan nations when they had the Almighty God. God must be our ultimate "President". We don't look to man to take care of us. We have to live a life of faith and love.

Ultimately, we all have vote according to our conscience and be able to stand before God and give reason why we voted the way we did. We have thrown God's commandments out of the court room and now in its place we are making up our own. hmmmm...

Rom 1:31-32 - They were w/o understanding, conscienceless and faithless, heartless and loveless and merciless.
Though they are fully aware of God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve to die, they not only do them themselves but approve and applaud others who practice them.

Obama is driven by Christian faith? More like he's driven by faith in himself and a strong desire to be the president... I haven't heard anything that tells me he is driven by any faith.

Going to a church and having a christian mother doesn't make you a christian. Obama also went to an extremeist muslim school. Not that it means he is muslim but christianity isn't the only religon he was taught growing up. I really don't think he is driven by any religion or faith.

Apart from the fact that i don't trust Obama whatsoever to lead and protect our nation, i could never vote for a man who said one of the first things he would do in office is remove every barrier in regards to abortion. he would legalize partial birth abortion.... a woman 7 months pregnant could decide she didn't want a baby after all and abort it.... and he's a Christian? He has a relationship with Jesus? Yet he doesn't value the life of an unborn child even a little. And when asked when he believes life begins he responded "I think that's above my paygrade."

Is it ever okay to end the life of a child?

I believe the heartbeat of our Savior is LIFE! He gave His life, so we may have life! Putting into office a man and woman who will uphold the value of human life, will be honored by the Lord.

RE: Red, Right & Blue

Not all issues have equal value. The Sanctity of Life is the foremost issue. (Matthew 25:40) Combating homosexual behavior and other ungodly behaviors are other top issues since these matter most to God. (1 Corinthians 6:9-10)

Unless a child is allowed to be born, none of the other issues matter to this child whether it be economic, environmental, or security issues. God expects us to do our best in combating evil and He will heal our land and its many problems if we obey Him.

We need to vote for candidates who will appoint Supreme Court justices who will uphold God’s laws instead of tear them down. (2 Chronicles 7:14) “if My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

Our votes do matter greatly. Will you vote for a candidate who will uphold God’s Laws or not? Our future is at stake. Please first pray and then vote.

I've read with interest tbe posts here before and after my first one. Though I don't agree with all here, I do feel we each have the right to decide who will be our chosen candidate, what issues are important to us and why. No one here has the right to call names - not if we bear the name "Christian". It doesn't honor God and doesn't belong here. This isn't spirited discussion, posters are being vilified by other ones.

That said, I am stating a fact. God called homosexuality an abomination, burned two cities because of the practice of it and in every Biblical reference to it (in both Old and New Testaments) puts it in the category of "sin". Approving of it, sanctioning it and defending it can in no way be termed "Christ-like". I fear for a country who holds that view.

Perhaps that is not Barack Obama's main objective, perhaps it is not even taking the life of the unborn and calling it a "choice". Perhaps if he becomes President, he will make great strides in improving the economy, have the wisdom to end America's involvement in Iraq without opening the doors for even great problems, and perhaps his "change" agenda will better our lives in many ways. But at what cost?

I have been searching my heart and looking at both candidates deeply. As a Christian I have looked to the candidates for evidence of their Christian values. John McCain started an affair with his current wife while still married to his previous wife and while she was being treated for cancer. He then neglected Cindy so much that she became addicted to pain pills. Barack Obama practices the strong family values he preaches and Michelle Obama always puts her girls first when she talks to the public I believe Sarah Palin's career always comes ahead of her family, and that her daughter was clearly crying out for attention -- she was at fault in a car wreck while she was supposed to be out of school with mono. I find a real Christian message in Barak's conduct and dignity and unfortunately I don't see it in McCain.

So many Christians have lost sight of what Jesus stood for. Love thy Neighbor. Not any more I guess. McCain/Palin's sneering, hatemongering, racist, lying campaign is what so many Christians now believe in. Jesus was compassionate and caring and honest.

I was in a pretty good mood prior to being sucked into reading this so-called "discussion" about politics. As a young Christian woman, I haven't voted in many elections, and I don't admit to knowing enough about politics to debate someone successfully on all issues, but I do know a few things that I learned from the Bible...

GOD SHOULD DECIDE....when a person dies. NOT US!

GOD AND HIS FOLLOWERS SHOULD PROVIDE.....help for the poor. It should not be the responsibility of the government.

GOD CREATED US MAN AND WOMAN....for a reason! He also condemns homosexuality.

GOD WANTS HIS NAME TO BE PRAISED...by all people, whenever possible, yes, even in schools.

GOD DOESN'T LOVE ANY RACE MORE....so voters shouldn't either. It shouldn't even be an issue.

So....without putting either candidate on a pedestal that they don't deserve, I will vote based on my deep-seated Biblical beliefs instead of media propaganda and empty promises from the podium.

Although this is a back issue and I am not an American, I will like to write this few comments as the election closes in. I think as Christians we need to understand that forcing people not to have an abortion, practise sodomy etc will definitely not take them to heaven. As a matter of fact I believe God himself as given us options. The only way we can deal with sins in our societies is to make people see what God is offering them in Christ Jesus rather forcing them to obey the laws of God. Remember, when people understand the love of God and yield to Christ, they will receive the Holy Spirit who will teach them all things. Even we Christians are not under the law but we can obey the law through the Holy Spirit. The things of God does not make sense to someone who is not saved. I believe Christians should focus more on sharing the love of God rather than imposing God's rule on unsaved people, it hardens them the more. remi kolawole