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Dawn Reed

Guest Columnist

I don’t know if you’ve been keeping up with the Presidential election. I’m almost positive you’ve caught wind of it. To be quite honest, I’m exhausted with the commercials, debates, accusations, and current approval rates. I want to say that I’ll be glad when it’s all over.

I just want to remind you of a few things. God is really the one in charge of elections. Daniel 4:17 says:…the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone He wishes…

Don’t be discouraged (and think it’s the absolute end of the world) if your candidate does not win. As the day approaches when Jesus will come back for believers, life will get even more difficult. People are losing their jobs, cancer is rampant, gas is up to almost $6 per gallon-in California, and a ton of other things are in the headlines and weigh on our hearts every day.

I want to encourage you to trust in the LORD. Of course, I hope and pray that you will trust Him every day, but especially as the Presidential election draws near. There is not one single thing that surprises God. He already knows who the winner will be. Our job, as children of the Most High, is to act like we are His. In regard to voting, if you have the privilege of voting, do so, but pray about it first! Don’t vote like your Mom and Dad or your Grandpa that always voted a certain way. Pray, and then cast your vote how God leads. We have to do our part. We can’t rare back and say, “God knows who it’s going to be…I don’t need to do a thing.” If you are unable to vote, then I ask you to make a point to pray for both Presidential candidates. (I recently felt convicted that I was rolling my eyes instead of closing them in prayer!)

Don’t EVER argue about politics. Rarely can you ever convince someone to change their opinions! Just smile, listen-or go to your happy place, nod-if necessary. Feel free to say, “I know it’s frustrating. It’s hard to know who is telling the truth. But, I’m praying for both of them.” You can tell ‘em, “My friend Dawn said I’m not allowed to argue about it.”

Do not lose hope! God can use all things for good for those who love Him (Romans 8:28). He can use the layoffs of the coal miners. There’s nothing like a financial crisis to bring you close to the Lord! (My husband was laid off from a coal mine many years ago.) God can use cancer, sickness and other difficulties to strengthen our faith and teach us to trust in Him. (My Dad is going through chemo at this time.) And He can use a Presidential election to help us realize that we are living in the last days before Christ comes back for His bride (a.k.a. the church/believers).