Around 2017, the New York Times ran an article with the headline: “The Internet is Broken.” Of course, that caught my attention. But as I read, I realized it was more than a headline. It was part of a quote from Evan Williams, a co-founder of X (formerly Twitter) and co-creator of Blogger. He went on to say, “I thought once everybody could speak freely and exchange information and ideas, the world is automatically going to be a better place. I was wrong about that.”
Hence, the internet is “broken.”
That was then, but this is now, and things seem to be only getting worse. The free exchange of information and ideas hasn’t led to a better internet or world. Rather, it’s led to a deeper and growing tribalism, a reduction of human beings created in the image of God to their ideologies, division, and anger. So much anger.
And this is all, by the way, before the upcoming presidential election. What will happen after?
As a pastor, that’s a question I get asked a lot. “What do you think is going to happen with the election?”
In my best moments, I manage to successfully avoid unhelpful speculation and stick to the facts: “I have no idea.” But, if I’m honest, that rarely brings the peace people are looking for (me included). Which is why lately I’ve had to find comfort in the peace that comes from a greater truth: “I know the One who does!”
In Psalm 46:1-3, the psalmist reminds us, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.”
When we experience the inevitable uncertainty, anxiety, and “trouble” that comes along with another election cycle, it’s best to remember we need not fear. Why? Because we know the One in control of it all!
We might be surprised with the election results, but God isn’t. And we can take great comfort, and find peace, in the fact that his plan is good, and for our good! Yes, even if our preferred candidate doesn’t win.
But what should we do?
The Apostle Paul, in 1 Timothy 2:1-3 writes, “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercessions 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. This is good, and pleases God our savior.”
In short, we should pray. In fact, it should be the first thing we do! And notice Paul tells us who to pray for: “all people.” This means everyone, not just the people we like.
Jesus, in Luke 6:27-28, underscores that point when he says, “But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.”
Jesus challenges us to extend love not hate, peace not division, prayer not anger, to the people and candidates across the political aisle from us. That’s hard! But also, for our good. And it pleases God our Savior!
I need the reminder (and challenge) to pray, daily. But sometimes I also need help knowing what exactly to pray for. Maybe you do, too?
If so, here are 5 things to pray for, regardless of who wins on election day:
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.”
Proverbs 9:10
“If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
James 1:5
“Therefore, you kings, be wise: be warned, you rulers of the earth. Serve the LORD with fear and celebrate his rule with trembling.”
Psalm 2:10-11
“The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.”
Proverbs 11:3
“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”
Micah 6:8
Elections often create an environment for politics to take center stage in our lives. Christians are right to care about politics and pray for our leaders. It’s good and pleasing to God! But don’t forget, our ultimate citizenship lies not here, but in heaven, and our ultimate hope lies not in a president or administration, but in King Jesus who rules from his eternal throne.
Praying for the election is a good first step to bringing your whole life to God in prayer. Learn more about how to saturate your life with prayer through the Prayer of Daily Examen.