On this day in 1970 United States President Richard Nixon signed the 26^th amendment, lowering the voting age to 18.

When Congress was debating about whether or not to lower the voting age, many people expressed fear that all the new young voters would change the elections. The reasoning was that young people could be easily influenced by the politicians and then would come out in droves and vote, even if they didn’t really understand the issues.

They didn’t have to worry. No group of Americans sends a high percentage to the polls. And the youngest voters, 18 to 21, consistently vote in lower numbers than any other group.

What a shame. Voting is such a privilege and honor. Just look at how people turn out for elections in nations that have just won freedom. Huge numbers of people vote. They know the value and importance of free elections.

The Bible tells us, in several places, to be good citizens and to respect those in authority over us. This includes obeying the laws, unless those laws would have us violate God’s laws.

You can’t vote right now, but you can still be involved in the process. When the next election rolls around, read up on the candidates and their positions. Encourage the voters in your family (mother, father, older brother or sister, aunt, uncle, grandparent) to get out and cast their votes.

Today’s verse encourages us to “accept” those in authority over us, “for the Lord’s sake.” This seems to indicate that God has allowed these men and women to be in their government positions for a purpose. So respecting them means much more than being a good citizen; it honors God. And that’s most important.

For the Lord’s sake, accept all authority—the king as head of state, and the officials he has appointed. For the king has sent them to punish all who do wrong and to honor those who do right. (1 Peter 2:13–14)

To Do

Put the President, your senators, your congressional representative, your mayor, and other government officials on your prayer list and pray for them every day.

Also on this day . . .

1847—Doughnuts were created—yum!

1909—The first transcontinental (all the way across America) auto race ended in Seattle, WA.

1998—The 75^th National Marbles Tournament began in Wildwood, New Jersey.

From Betsy Schmitt and Dave Veerman, 365 Trivia Twist Devotions: An Almanac of Fun Facts and Spiritual Truth for Every Day of the Year (Cincinnati: Standard, 2005).