5 Scriptures to Alleviate Election Anxiety
Next week, Americans will find out which Presidential candidate will lead the nation for the next four years. It seems that as we near Election Day, collective fear and anxiety continue to increase. Even many Christians have expressed worry over what will come from the next four years. While being able to vote and research political policies of different candidates are privileges we should duly exercise and show gratitude for, it’s critical that Christians continue to put their priority in the right place and not buy into the lie that they are doomed under the leadership of any one person.
Election season poses a unique opportunity for believers to set an example of what it means to have peace and security in Christ, no matter what. But to be a good witness, we must first learn to truly trust God in our hearts.
If you are struggling to feel at peace about the upcoming election, I encourage you to find refuge through these verses.
Romans 8:38-39
“For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
This is the assurance we have as children of God: no matter what happens on this earth, or who is President now or in the future, we are ultimately taken care of in the Lord.
Proverbs 16:33
“The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord.”
Romans 13:1
“Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.”
Titus 3:1-2
“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and to show true humility toward all men.”
At the end of the day, there is no political election of which God does not know the outcome. We can rest in the truth that nothing happens without the Lord’s knowledge and oversight. At times, it may appear as though God is no longer in control. But He is the King of Kings over every man-made nation, no matter who is temporarily “in charge.” Every authority in power obtains their authority from God and will have to answer to God in how they utilize the power that is given to them. We are called to submit to the authority that God places over us (unless they tell us to do something that is directly in conflict with the Bible), and be at peace knowing that God is the one in charge.
1 Timothy 2:1-2
“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone — for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
This verse is one of many Scriptural reminders that rather than whine and complain about our leaders, we are to pray for our leaders. No matter who is in office or what their party affiliation may be, they need our prayers to lead well. If we believe that God can redeem the worst of sinners, then we should also have faith that He can lead foolish advisers into wisdom.
Remember that no leader is perfect (other than God), and every leader in the Bible (other than Jesus) had many flaws and sins (including King David who committed adultery with Bathsheba and had her husband killed).
As we near Election Day, I encourage you to meditate on these verses and any others that fill you with peace. Continue to pray for those who are in charge and be a light to the world by remaining steady and uplifting, no matter who is voted in office. I also encourage you to act in a manner worthy of your calling as a representative of Jesus Christ and show others that you are at peace no matter the outcome of the election because you trust in God.