Former Christian Coalition architect Ralph Reed (R) announced Wednesday that he will not go after the seat being vacated by Rep. John Linder (R).

“After much thought and prayer, I have decided not to be a candidate for Congress in Georgia’s Seventh district in 2010,” Reed said in a statement.

“I believe I can best advance conservative principles by continuing to serve as CEO of Century Strategies, LLC, and founding chairman of the Faith and Freedom Coalition,” he said. “I believe electing 50 to 100 men and women of character and conservative beliefs to Congress and statewide office over the next two election cycles is a more efficacious way to advance the conservative agenda than seeking public office myself in 2010.”

But Reed didn’t close the door on a future Congressional bid.

“Should that door open in the future, perhaps I will arrive at a different decision, but I know this is the right decision at this time for me and the Reed family,” he said.

Reed started the Faith & Freedom Foundation last summer. The venture has been described as a Christian Coalition 2.0.

State Sen. Don Balfour (R) and state Rep. Clay Cox (R) are already in the race in the heavily Republican 7th district. Gwinnett County Commissioner Mike Beaudreau is also considering making a run.