Written by Mmusi Maimane; BOSA
Article originally featured in JOY! Magazine August 2026 issue
As South Africans and as Christians, we are often asked: “Which party should I vote for?” “What must I look at?” “What kind of leadership should I follow?” And most importantly: “How can I make a difference now?” The truth is, the Bible does not tell us to vote for a specific party. But it does give us principles to guide us. Voting is not just a political act. It is also a moral and spiritual responsibility. Here are five things every Christian should look at before casting their vote, and how you as an individual can make a difference today.
1. Look at character and integrity of leadership
The Bible is clear: “When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice” (Prov 29:2). We should ask: Is this leader honest? Do they take responsibility? Do they serve the people, or themselves? South Africa has suffered too much from corruption, greed, and self-interest. As Christians we must vote for leaders who fear God, who are accountable, and who will not steal from the poor. Character matters more than promises. A good manifesto means nothing if the person leading it cannot be trusted. Look at track record, not just talk.
2. Look through the lens of justice, life, and dignity
Every policy should be measured against: Does this protect human life? Does this promote justice? Does this uphold the dignity of every person made in God’s image?
Key areas to consider:
- Life and family: Does the party protect life from conception to natural death? Does it support strong families and communities?
- Justice and anti-corruption: Does it have a clear plan to fight corruption and ensure those who steal public money are held accountable?
- Poverty and work: Does it create an environment for jobs, small business, and economic growth? The Church cannot feed everyone. We need policies that help people work and provide for their families.
- Freedom of religion and conscience: Will Christians still be
free to live out their faith, run schools, and speak truth in public?
Vote for policies that align with Biblical justice: defending the vulnerable, caring for the poor, and ensuring fairness.
3. Look at competence and service delivery
Jesus fed people, healed people, and met practical needs. Government should do the same: water, electricity, roads, schools, safety. There are growing calls for competence and ethics in government, with leaders stressing that it requires more than politics. The focus is on selecting people who understand financial management and municipal governance, and who are committed to serving communities. The goal is to move away from politics being run by career politicians, and instead have capable, ethical individuals who can manage public resources and deliver services effectively. Ask: Can this party actually deliver? Do they have people with experience and skill? Are the municipalities they run working better? It is not Godly to vote for failure just because of loyalty or history. We are stewards of this country. We must choose leaders who can manage resources well and serve all people, not just their own.
4. Look at unity vs division
South Africa is still healing. We need leaders who unite, not divide us by race, class, or religion for political gain. The Bible calls us to be peacemakers. Look for a party that speaks to all South Africans, that rejects racism and tribalism, and that builds one nation under God. BOSA believes in a South Africa where everyone has a place and a future.
5. Look at the long term, not just handouts
It is easy to be swayed by promises right before elections. But ask: What is the 10-year plan? Will this decision help my children and grandchildren? Voting is not selfish. It’s about the next generation. We must choose leaders who will protect our Constitution, protect property rights, and build institutions that last beyond one election cycle.
So which party?
We cannot tell you “vote for X”. That is between you, your conscience, and God. But we can say: vote prayerfully. Vote informed. Vote for character, competence, justice, and service. And hold whoever you vote for accountable after the election too. Your vote is not a once-off blank cheque. At BOSA, we believe South Africa needs servant leadership. Leaders who work, who are honest, and who put South Africa first. If that is what you are looking for, then we ask you to consider BOSA.
How can I make a difference?
You don’t have to be an MP to change South Africa. Here’s how
you start today:
- Pray: Pray for the nation, for wisdom, and for leaders (1 Tim 2:1-2).
- Get informed: Don’t vote based on WhatsApp rumours. Read manifestos. Attend community meetings. Ask hard questions.
- Talk: Speak to your family, church, and neighbours. Help them think Biblically about the election.
- Volunteer: Join a party, an NGO, or a community project. Clean a street. Mentor a child. Be the change.
- Vote and monitor: Vote on election day, then stay involved. Write to your councillor. Attend ward meetings. Hold leaders accountable.
Stand up and vote!
South Africa’s future will not be decided only in parliament. It will be decided in churches, homes, and communities by ordinary people who choose to get involved. As Christians, we are called to be salt and light. That includes in politics. Don’t sit back and complain. Stand up, vote wisely, and build the South Africa we all want to see. A vote is a voice. Use yours.
This article appears in the August 2026 issue of JOY! Magazine. Read the digital version of this magazine here: joygifts.co.za
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Date published: 24/07/2026
Feature image: Sourced from original article published in the August issue of JOY! Magazine
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