I’m writing these words the day before our nation’s presidential election. I will respond to the results of this election in much the same way I responded to the Covid pandemic and the liberating way we can respond (and are commanded to respond) to all difficulties as believers:
“I will not worry about anything, but instead, I will pray about everything,” Philippians 4:6a (personal paraphrase).
God is good…all the time.
That is not ignorant or simple-minded – it’s truth – beautiful, perfect, liberating truth. There is absolutely NOTHING that God cannot use for our good and His glory, including this election and however this nation will respond to it. The days ahead are uncertain, regardless of who is in office, but the one thing that is certain is Who is truly in control. Romans 13:1b says, “For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.” God has raised up Godly leaders and He has purposely raised up wicked leaders. We won’t always know His purposes for leaders, but we can trust that His plans are for ultimate good.
So how do we respond to the results of this election?
Pray for our leaders (even if you don’t agree with them)
“I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. Pray this way for kings and all who are in authority so that we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity. This is good and pleases God our Savior…” (2 Tim. 2:1-3).
Have an eternal mindset
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal” (2 Cor 4:17-18).
Rest, hope, and trust in God alone
“Rest in God alone, my soul, for my hope comes from Him.
He alone is my rock and my salvation, my stronghold; I will not be shaken.
My salvation and glory depend on God, my strong rock. My refuge is in God.
Trust in Him at all times, you people; pour out your hearts before Him. God is our refuge” (Psalm 62:5-8).
Represent Jesus in our reactions, behaviors, and words
“So we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us; we [as Christ’s representatives] plead with you on behalf of Christ to be reconciled to God” 2 Cor 5:20.
We can be confident, unshakeable, and hopeful today and every day because this world is not our home and “we set our minds on things above, not on earthly things (Col 3:2).” This is a perfect time to teach and model this to our kids and those around us. There is nothing that comes as a surprise to God. No matter which candidate has won the election or what is happening all around us, God is always one step ahead.
– Mel Anderson
Photo by Edwin Andrade on Unsplash