Renewed Optimism
“Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save. Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God.” Psalm 146:3-5
“Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save. Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God.” Psalm 146:3-5
The inauguration of a new president is a fresh start for all of us and it's a time to put aside any hostility toward our politicians that lead this nation. But above all, it's a time to renew our allegiance to the God who gave this great nation! Let's remember that it is vital that the Church demonstrate love and grace to all, regardless of political affiliation.
President Trump spoke three memorable statements in his address to the nation yesterday that stirred optimism in my heart, “The golden age of America begins right now...A tide of change is sweeping the country...We will not forget our country, we will not forget our Constitution, and we will not forget our God.”
The Bible teaches us that unity in Christ supersedes any earthly divisions! All believers should take the lead in expressing renewed optimism in the possibilities given to us in this nation and renewed opportunity in serving our God and country. John F. Kennedy spoke renewed responsibility to all Americans in his 1961 inaugural address with these powerful words, “My fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country.”
It is through our deep faith in God and renewed empowerment that Christians can help bring healing to our deeply fractured nation.
It’s easy to get caught up in the political division that’s destroying our nation, but we can never forget to pray that God would grant wisdom, discernment, and a heart of humility for our new president and his cabinet. Micah 6:8 reminds us that what the Lord requires of presidents and policemen, senators and salesmen, plumbers and pastors is to, “act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
In times of political uncertainty, it’s easy to become discouraged with what we see happening around us, but as Christians, we are reminded that our hope is not tied to any political leader – our hope rests in the powerful promises of God. King David said it perfectly in Psalm 146:3-5, “Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save. Blessed are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God.”
Yesterday's inauguration was a reminder that while political leaders come and go, our trust must always remain in the eternal kingdom of God and His eternal truth. We are to fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, and to trust that His plans are perfect, even when earthly circumstances seem uncertain.
This is a new season for us to reflect on the church’s calling and gifting to bring hope, peace, and transformation through our message of the gospel of Christ. No matter who holds office, our ultimate allegiance is to Jesus Christ, who reigns righteously and supremely. Let us go forward with hearts full of grace and wisdom, trusting in God’s sovereignty!
God bless America,
Pastor Dave