Much has been written about the historic nature of the election we’re about to experience. On a national level, U.S. voters will elect either the first African-American president or the first female vice president. The election of either candidate will be long remembered as a significant moment in the American experience.

Beyond the elements of skin tone and gender, however, Americans seem to sense this time also marks an important cultural moment in our history. We go into this election as a nation at war and in the midst of severe economic crisis. Emotions are running high and nerves are becoming frayed as partisans for each set of candidates maneuver, spend and calculate.

As we approach this significant moment, it’s only right that we ask ourselves as Christians, “How would God have me respond?” As we look to the Scriptures, we find that God actually has quite a lot to say about our relationship to governmental authority. In 1 Peter 2:13-14, Peter says to “submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every authority instituted among men: whether to the king, as the supreme authority, or to governors, who are sent by him.” In Romans 13:4, Paul (while living under the rule of a pagan government) said, “Government is God’s servant to you for good.” In Mark 12:17, Jesus himself reminds us to “render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and to God the things that are God’s.”

So how does this play out in a practical way in 2008? Here are some concrete ways to allow your faith and American politics to intersect:

Pray. Pray for your country, for this election and for all of the candidates, even those you do not support. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 urges that “petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all those who are in authority.”

Vote. If you are eligible to vote, do so. Examine the words, past actions, qualifications and experience of the candidates. Look beyond the smiles and personalities to the platforms of their parties and ask God for His guidance as you decide for whom to cast your ballot. Party platforms, voter guides and comparative analysis of the candidates’ issue stances are readily available on the Internet and in various publications.

Engage. Voting should only mark the beginning of Christian civic involvement. In Matthew 5:13-14, Jesus tells us to be salt and light. In the context of Christian citizenship, this means being willing to be counted on issues of importance. Be willing to call or write your government leaders. Attend rallies, support resolutions or sign petitions as appropriate. Government leaders often hear only from people with extreme viewpoints because the vast majority of citizens avoid getting involved.

Participate. One of the greatest needs in America today is for Christians to take their citizenship to the level of actual service. Most elected positions in the United States are not full-time jobs so committing to public office does not necessarily mean a career change. People who are juggling the responsibilities of other jobs, church obligations and busy family lives can fill school boards, city councils and even state legislative positions. Serving is not easy. Most people don’t want the hassle. But if you have the qualifications to serve, maybe you should be praying about whether God is calling you in this direction.

Here’s a final point to remember about the interesting times in which we live: God still is in control. He will be in control on Nov. 4, and He will still be in control on Nov. 5, no matter who is elected. And it is to Him that we owe our ultimate trust and allegiance. In his own farewell speech as a national leader, Joshua reminded the people of Israel of this crucial point. “Choose you this day whom you will serve,” he said, “but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15).

John Chowning is vice president for church and external relations at Campbellsville University. He also serves as chairman of the KBC’s Committee on Public Affairs and pastor of Saloma Baptist Church in Campbellsville