INDIANAPOLIS (BP) -- You're standing in a block-long line, waiting to vote in our nation's presidential election. God has placed you there as His ambassador. Ask Him to use you there. Here's a couple of fresh ideas:

VOTING LINE VIGILANCE

-- Look up. Ask God for patience as you wait in line, for wisdom as you cast a vote, and for open doors to show His love during these minutes or hours.

-- Look down. Bow your head and silently pray for weary poll workers, for voters around you, and for candidates who await the opportunity to serve.

-- Look around you. Strike up a conversation with fellow line-standers. Help a mom with a crying toddler. Find a chair for an elderly person. Make a new acquaintance or two. If you have an opportunity, invite them to your church next Sunday, and exchange email addresses to keep in touch.

VOTING EVE PROJECT

-- After you leave the voting booth, stop by a Christian bookstore and purchase a nice Bible.

-- As you watch election results, carefully highlight lots of Scripture verses that could encourage a leader.

-- When election results are announced, pray for the winners and losers. Prayerfully select one newly elected local, state or national official, and make a plan to present that Bible to him or her.

-- If you prefer, gift the Bible from your entire Bible class, church group or family. Write a note in the front pages to assure the leader of your faithful prayer, and ask members of your group to sign their names.

-- Mail or personally deliver the Bible to the leader.

-- Set a weekly reminder on your phone or calendar so you won't forget to pray.

-- Send a monthly note to remind the government leader of your prayers for him or her.

Vote wisely, then follow up your vote with prayers and encouragement for those elected.
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Diana Davis (www.keeponshining.com) is an author, speaker and wife of the North American Mission Board's vice president for the Midwest region, Steve Davis. Get Baptist Press headlines and breaking news on Twitter (@BaptistPress), Facebook (Facebook.com/BaptistPress ) and in your email ( baptistpress.com/SubscribeBP.asp).