God, the Election, and How to Proceed

Next week we will go to the polls and elect the next President of the United States of America. There is no way to capture in words what a volatile election cycle this has been. Neither candidate exactly portrays what we would like a president to portray. Corruption, anger, distrust, and a general sense of vileness has been front and center for the last year or so. It is sad to think that we, as a nation, have come to this point.

In a very short and shockingly swift manner, America has moved from our Judeo-Christian roots to a very Humanistic society. The question is no longer a question of being a godly nation, but one of personal and social rights. The church has gone from central in our communities to a marginalized organization. So fast has this shift been that we are struggling to figure out what our response ought to be. While I would not begin to pretend for a minute that I can answer all of these questions, I would offer the following advice for the days ahead:

Remember that all authority is established by God. Romans 13:1 tells us, “For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God.” While we might not like who gets elected as President, we must accept that it is God’s will and that He is working according to His purposes. Rarely do we understand what God is doing in times like these, but we must proceed in faith.

Remember that God is Sovereign. Daniel 4:17 reminds us, “…the Most High rules the kingdom of men and gives it to whom he will and sets over it the lowliest of men.” While it is easy to look at the election as a game of chance or a simple competition, it is not so. God, by His sovereignty, establishes the leadership that He wants.

Pray Faithfully. While we may not be able to obtain the outcome we desire from the election, we can be faithful to pray for the one who wins. 1 Timothy 2:1-2 commands us, “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” God can do more in a moment than we can in a lifetime. Prayer is not a passive waste of time. Prayer moves the very hand of God, breaks the heart of man, and brings about the will of God.

Dear Christian, do not lose heart. God is still in control and is not surprised in the slightest by what is going on these days. He is firmly seated on His throne and His position as ruler of the universe is as secure as it has ever been. These are days that Christians can truly show themselves to be a people of faith, trust, joy, and peace. Our God is not shaken.

Honored to be your pastor,

Darrell