Every four years, American politics takes center stage. Citizens wonder, Will my candidate win? What will happen if they lose? These questions can feel heavy, especially when the stakes seem impossibly high.
If you lean Republican, the political landscape may feel like a whirlwind. With Donald Trump’s second, non-consecutive term as President, emotions are high—whether you view this as a victory or a tumultuous continuation of his controversial political journey. For Democrats, this election may seem like a step backward, marked by the resurgence of a figure some have likened to an autocrat.
But as Christians, we are called to rise above the fray of partisanship and political turmoil. The Bible reminds us, “It is better to take refuge in the Lord than to trust in man” (Psalm 118:8, ESV). This truth is critical in times of political uncertainty: our ultimate trust must never rest in a human leader, but in God alone.
Lessons from Israel’s First King
When elections dominate the news cycle, I’m often reminded of the story of King Saul. Before Saul, God Himself was Israel’s king. Can you imagine living in a nation where the Lord directly governs your people? Yet, the Israelites weren’t content. They told Samuel, “Now appoint for us a king to judge us like all the nations” (1 Samuel 8:5, ESV).
This wasn’t just a rejection of Samuel’s leadership—it was a rejection of God. The Israelites wanted to be like other nations, trading divine governance for a human monarchy. Despite Samuel’s warnings that a king would exploit and oppress them, they persisted. God granted their request, and Saul became their first king.
What followed was a cautionary tale. Saul’s reign brought victories, but also failures born from pride, disobedience, and fear. By demanding a human king, Israel showed their lack of faith in God’s provision.
This story is a stark reminder: when we place our hope in human leaders, we’re bound for disappointment. No president, party, or political system can offer the perfect justice, peace, and righteousness that only God can provide.
Avoiding the Trap of False Security
Jesus warned His followers to stay spiritually alert, especially in times of apparent stability. “While people are saying, ‘There is peace and security,’ then sudden destruction will come upon them” (1 Thessalonians 5:3, ESV). Elections often lull us into a false sense of hope or dread. We may believe that a certain leader will either save or ruin our nation.
But history shows that earthly peace is fragile. Policies change, leaders rise and fall, and public opinion shifts like sand. Instead of anchoring ourselves to these uncertainties, we should focus on the kingdom that cannot be shaken (Hebrews 12:28).
This doesn’t mean we ignore politics or fail to participate. Voting and advocating for justice are ways we live out our faith. But we must remember that no human leader can fulfill God’s ultimate plan for redemption and peace. That role belongs to Jesus Christ alone, the King of Kings.
Living in Expectation of Christ’s Return
As Christians, our perspective must always extend beyond the temporary concerns of this world. Jesus taught us to live with readiness, expecting His return. He described a world filled with distractions, false prophets, and turmoil. In the midst of it, He called His followers to remain faithful and focused.
When we view current events, including elections, through the lens of eternity, it changes everything. The anxiety of political wins and losses fades. Instead, we are empowered to pray for our leaders, engage in our communities, and share the gospel with urgency.
As Philippians 3:20 reminds us, “Our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (ESV). This eternal perspective frees us from the fear and division that dominate worldly politics. It reminds us that no matter who occupies the Oval Office, God is still on His throne.
How Should Christians Respond?
- Pray for Leaders: The Bible commands us to pray for those in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Whether we agree with them or not, lifting leaders in prayer aligns our hearts with God’s sovereignty.
- Avoid Idolatry: Be wary of placing too much hope or fear in political figures. Trusting God above all else protects us from disillusionment and bitterness.
- Engage Wisely: Participate in the political process with discernment, advocating for justice and righteousness without losing sight of your ultimate allegiance to Christ.
- Proclaim the Gospel: Amid political debates, don’t neglect the most urgent message: the good news of Jesus. Remember, political solutions are temporary, but salvation is eternal.
As we navigate these turbulent times, let us fix our eyes on the One who never changes. Leaders come and go, but God remains steadfast. By placing our trust in Him, we can face the future with confidence, hope, and the unshakable joy of knowing that His kingdom is near.
Spread the Gospel; lives depend on it!
I pray, MARANATHA! (Come Quickly, Lord Jesus!)
Your brother in Christ,
Duane
Other posts to continue your study:
Obeying government in a wicked world
