Did you know an election happened in the U.S. this week? Ok, ok, I obviously do not believe this matter is light-hearted. In that light, let me offer a few thoughts I hope will help.
1. The sovereignty of God.
Maybe you have tired of hearing things like "trust God" or "Jesus is above all this". Let me encourage you: don't. The more we learn to trust God's sovereignty the more we can navigate unsettling times.
Further, we cannot trumpet the sovereignty of God only when convenience allows. In difficult situations, we must trust that God's plans rise above our experience. We may have a hard time trusting God really knows what He is doing right now, but Scripture sends that exact message.
2. Prayer
For whom do you pray? Both candidates? Or only one? People with whom you disagree? Or only those more like yourself?
We see prayer in Scripture as useful in connecting with God and calming troubled spirits. Engage the Lord and come before Him boldly!
3. Oh, those nagging emotions.
Emotions are human. We have them. They are helpful! They tell us about ourselves. But like anything, they remain subject to the influence of sin in our lives. In a positive sense, emotions can tip us off to action we should take. In a negative sense, emotions might indicate our worship has turned away from God and toward a trust in people.
I truly believe turning off the news and getting off social media can help if this election has caused distress. Take it all in small doses!
Further, let me encourage you to do your very best to attach your emotions to truth. That always gives us the best chance to process them and respond appropriately.
4. Pray for something better.
Pray for a better season ahead. Pray our leaders will come together. Pray our nation will come together. I've read more than once this week the majority of Americans simply don't want the division, hatred, etc. Pray for your role in unifying and pray for a season of encouragement!
No matter how you voted, I love you. I pray you will find peace and hope in Christ alone during this election season and throughout your life. I pray others will hear and see that hope through the way we live our lives!
In Christ,
Pastor Kevin