Monday, November 28, 2016

Post-Election Woes
By Susan Klein

“So then, those who suffer according to God’s will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.”

If you partake in any form of social media, you have seen it exploding with viewpoints on the recent presidential election. Some folks are delighted their candidate won; others are exploring a move to a different country. Many believe it was a lose-lose situation altogether. Even people in other countries are weighing in on whether or not things turned out for good or bad, both for themselves and for us. This is definitely a turbulent time in our country (perhaps our world) and could lead some down the road of despair.

To help keep things in perspective, here are (just a few) truths from God’s word:

·         No plan of God’s can be thwarted (Job 42:2).
·         God establishes kings, and directs their courses (Daniel 2:24, Proverbs 21:1,     
·         Nothing, and no one can separate us from the love of Christ (Romans 8:35-  39).
·         What man may mean for evil, God can mean for good (Genesis 50:20).
·         The Lord’s plans stand firm forever, even foiling the plans of men (Psalm 33:10-11).

What then might our response be in view of these truths?

·         Keep our eyes fixed on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2).
·         Try to live at peace with everyone (Romans 12:18, Hebrews 12:14).
·         Continue to live uprightly as we wait for the blessed hope of the Lord’s return (Titus 2:12-13).      
·         Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances    (1Thessalonians 5:16-18a).
·         Be self-controlled and alert, resisting the evil one, standing firm in the faith (1 Peter 5:8-9).

Whatever your position on this election, hold fast to the truths of God’s unchangeable Word.

GOING DEEPER:
1. How can you encourage someone with God’s Word who might be struggling?
2. What truths might you add to the list above?


Susan is married to Mark, and has two adult children. She enjoys teaching Bible studies, writing, and tutoring with the Literacy Council. She is a member of the Peace Team at Oakwood and also co-leads a small group.