Steve and I went to bed before the outcome of yesterday’s election was declared. Before falling asleep, we affirmed together that one thing is certain, no matter who resides in the White House. Only One sits enthroned above the heavens. The position of King of Kings and Lord of Lords will never change. God is always sovereign and always will be. His rule is bigger than the United States and more enduring than the present. 

The American people have spoken. While the President did not receive a resounding vote of confidence – he won by less than 1/10 of 1 percent – he did win. I heard this morning that this is the first time a sitting President was re-elected by a significantly smaller margin than the first time around. In other words, while roughly half of us are rejoicing, the other half are mourning today. So I want to remind all of us of some perspective from God’s Word.

God was not caught by surprise. He was not preoccupied with his thoughts, busy, asleep, or on vacation. This election did not slip by Him. (Read I Kings 18).

Our role as believers is clear. It has not changed. As our pastor succinctly put it on Sunday, our task is to “Pray. Vote. Pray.” Hopefully, you prayed before you voted. Now it’s time to pray again – daily – for those in authority. Pray for President Obama, that he would lead this country well and that we would continue to be a light to the rest of the world.

“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”  I Timothy 2:1-2.

All authority is ordained by God. The Office of President deserves every American’s respect – no matter who you voted for.

“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.” Romans 13:1.

America is divided and desperately needs fixing, but no one party or one man can possibly fix it. The remedy is clear. We need to return to the Lord – in humility – and put God first.

“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.”  II Chronicles 7:14.

 The One who reigns can heal our land. Our hope must rest in Him and Him alone. There is no other way.