You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in you. Isaiah 26:3

This week, we saw the conclusion of all the political drama that has been building up over the past several months, and now we have a new president. I am sure some celebrate the results, while others are disappointed, even despairing. We can be encouraged because we continue to trust God and live in peace no matter the outcome. After all, the bible says God' removes kings and sets up kings.' This also means we must live in peace with those who don't share our view of the results. 

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose - Romans 8:28.

No matter what is going on in the world, God calls us to remain firmly rooted in the truth of His word and trust that He is over ALL things, including politics. We know His promises and can trust in His good and perfect will. So, what is God’s will? 

Simply put, God's active role in sustaining, guiding, and governing everything that happens for His purposes and glory. Nothing happens by chance because God works out His will in all events as we pray and ask him to.   Romans 12:2, Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."  God’s will and plan for you are good, regardless of the outcome of any election.

Trusting God's Providence does not mean that the outcome of an election is unimportant or that we should stoically ignore the issues at stake. Elections matter; we are called to be biblically informed and responsible citizens. However, the lasting peace Jesus promises is not dependent on election results. It comes by trusting God and knowing his plan and his will.  

So, how should we respond biblically to the election's outcome? Jesus calls us to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world - Matthew 5:13–14. Here are a few ways we can biblically respond: 

We should pray for all elected officials. In 1 Timothy 2:1-2, Paul instructs us to pray for our leaders, no matter their party or how we voted.

Honor those in authority. Titus 3:1–2 instructs us to honor our government officials regardless of party affiliation. Similarly, Peter says, "Show proper respect to everyone, love the family of believers, fear God, honor the emperor" (1 Peter 2:17).

Respond in kindness! We are called to reflect the fruit of the Spirit which is "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law" - Galatians 5:22–23. 

Strive for peace with everyone, and for the holiness without which no one will see the Lord - Hebrews 12:14 

We must remember that others are watching our response to the election. What will our words and actions demonstrate? A biblical response to the election's outcome will promote unity and peace. The Bible tells in many places the importance of being peacemakers.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God - Matthew 5:9

As we gather with family and friends for Thanksgiving, the election outcome may likely come up, which could lead to heated discussions. This presents a valuable opportunity for each of us to play the role of a peacemaker. It is an ideal time to demonstrate and promote peace, regardless of our views on the election results.

Let us anchor our hearts and souls to faith in God's good, wise, and sovereign Providence so that we may be at peace with ourselves and others and shine brightly in a dark world.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, I thank you for allowing me to live in a country where I am free. Thank you for the rights and privileges that we share in this nation. Help me to be an example of your love to others so that by my conduct, others will see Jesus in me.  I thank you for having a plan for our nation and that those plans are good. You desire that we have hope and a bright future as we trust in you. Thank you for watching over us, and we pray for a blessing on this country. In Jesus name, I pray, amen.