“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” – Psalm 20:7
Americans wait on the edge of their seats in anticipation of tomorrow’s presidential election results.
The collective national climate has intensified with each election season. The proverbial stakes seem to be higher and higher with every passing cycle.
Leadership matters.
Proverbs 29:2 reminds us, “When the righteous thrive, the people rejoice; when the wicked rule, the people groan.”
By all means, every responsible adult, regardless of religious affiliation, should be discerning and well-informed when they exercise their right to vote. All would be wise to remember the role of our government, which is outlined in the Preamble of our Constitution: “We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”
Voters should seek truth, however messy, and not rely on emotions and feelings when it comes to such essential matters like the future course of our nation. We should pray for the hearts and minds of our fellow citizens, that collectively we will repent and seek the Lord’s forgiveness, bringing to mind 2 Chronicles 7:14, “If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”
Regardless of the results of this presidential election, it will be essential for believers to keep in mind that God already knows who our next president will be, and that He places those in authority for a purpose.
Daniel 2:20-21 reminds us, “Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his. He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning.”
Romans 13:1 further states, “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”
Regardless of the outcome of the election, we are called to pray for those in leadership positions. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 reminds believers, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people — for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
The prayers of the righteous have the ability to shift the hearts of those in authority, and as 1 Timothy 2:3-4 goes on to say, “This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”
Regardless of the results of the election, God desires His followers to trust Him with the outcome.
“In the Lord’s hand the king’s heart is a stream of water that he channels toward all who please him.” (Proverbs 21:1)
“He makes nations great, and destroys them; he enlarges nations, and disperses them.” (Job 12:23)
And while leadership matters, our politicians cannot save us.
Chariots and horses will fail.
But our Savior never does.
“I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it.” (Ecclesiastes 3:14)
Throughout the lifetime of a nation, some years will be harder than others.
During difficult seasons when election outcomes do not go the way in which we had hoped, may we continue loving, continue serving, and continue moving forward with joy. “And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” (Hebrews 12:1-2.)
May we hold on to the hope that a nation can be changed – one heart at a time.
“In the same way, let your light shine before people, so they can see the good things you do and praise your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:16.)
