Day 20: November 4, 2024
As we approach the upcoming elections, feelings of anxiety and uncertainty can easily overwhelm us. The future seems uncertain, and the stakes feel incredibly high. In these moments, it’s essential to turn our hearts and minds to the truth found in Philippians 4:6-7:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."
These verses remind us that in the face of anxiety, we are called to bring everything before God in prayer. During this the election season anxiety and tension can run high. So, instead of allowing worry to take control, we can turn to our Heavenly Father in prayer, who offers us a peace that surpasses all understanding. As we go through this season of elections, let us anchor ourselves in this promise, that God's peace will guard our hearts and minds.
Here is what Jesus had to say about worry:
Matthew 6:25-27, NIV
"Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?"
As we approach the upcoming elections, it’s natural for concerns and anxieties to arise. The direction of our country, the future of our communities, and the well-being of our families all seem to hang in the balance. Yet, in the midst of this uncertainty, Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:25-33 offer a powerful reminder to place our trust not in earthly systems, but in our Heavenly Father.
Jesus begins by addressing the anxiety that often grips our hearts when we feel our future is uncertain. The elections can be a source of significant stress as we wonder about the outcome and how it will impact our lives. But Jesus tells us not to worry about our lives, because God knows our needs. Just as He provides for the birds of the air and clothes the flowers of the field, He will also take care of us.
During election season, it’s easy to become consumed by debates, campaigns, and the potential consequences of the results. I am not saying these things are not necessary we just can’t allow it to take our focus off our task at hand making Disciples for Christ return is imminent. Jesus points out that our Father in heaven knows exactly what we need it is this truth that frees us from the burden of worry, and allows us to focus on what truly matters: seeking God's kingdom and His righteousness.
Amid the political noise and the competing voices vying for our attention, Jesus calls us to seek first His kingdom. This doesn’t mean we ignore our civic responsibilities or disengage from the process. Rather, it means that our primary focus should be on living out the values of God’s kingdom—justice, mercy, humility, and love. When we prioritize God’s kingdom, He promises that everything else will fall into place.
Application:
As we approach the elections, let’s remember that our ultimate hope does not lie in a political party or candidate, but in God. Let’s engage in the process with faith, not fear, knowing that God is sovereign over all things. Instead of allowing worry to take root in our hearts, let’s commit to prayer, asking God to guide our nation according to His will and purpose.
Let this passage remind us to trust in God’s provision and plan. Our task is to seek His kingdom and trust that He will take care of the rest. No matter the outcome, God remains on the throne, and His love for us is steadfast and unchanging.
Prayer Focus:
Heavenly Father, as we face the uncertainty of the upcoming elections, help us to place our trust in You. Remind us that You are our provider and that You hold all things in Your hands. Give us the peace that surpasses understanding and help us to seek Your kingdom above all else. May Your will be done in our nation, and may we be instruments of Your love and justice in this world. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.