The 2024 Election and the God Who is Always on His Throne
Dear First Scots family,
There are many in our nation today who are quite anxious about how today will turn out as we go to the polls to elect a new President. In one sense, it’s only natural that we care deeply, thinking of the impacts on communities, families, and our witness as Christ’s followers. We are greatly blessed to live in a country in which we can make our voices heard and participate in the election of leaders.
And yet, as important as elections are, we must fix our minds on the reality that, while these choices matter deeply, they are guided by a hand far greater than any human plan or authority. As you think of the election today, think of these words by John Newton: “There is one political maxim which comforts me: ‘The Lord reigns.’ His hand guides the storm; and He knows them that are His, how to protect, support, and deliver them.”
Indeed, Scripture tells us that “the Most High rules the kingdom of men and gives it to whom he will” (Daniel 4:32). God is not a distant observer but the sovereign King over every square inch of earth. He raises up leaders, and He also deposes them. Though we have a role to play in exercising wisdom, prayer, and responsibility, the outcome belongs to Him. Proverbs reminds us that “the king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; he turns it wherever he will” (Proverbs 21:1). How sweet it is to know that no matter who sits in office, their very heart and decisions are held within God’s mighty and merciful hand!
Our hope, therefore, does not rest upon the four year term of a flawed individual, but in the unchanging reign of our Lord. “The Lord has established his throne in the heavens, and his kingdom rules over all” (Psalm 103:19). Political seasons bring great uncertainty, but God’s promises remain firm and eternal. He has always been faithful, and His purposes will prevail, even when the world seems completely unstable. Our call is not to anxiety but quiet, calm confidence that should be reflected in our words, actions, and prayers. When unrest creeps into our hearts, let us cast ourselves upon God’s promise that He is working all things together for good to those who love Him (Romans 8:28), knitting each thread into His beautiful plan that the glory of His Son be seen upon throughout the world.
Brothers and sisters, rather than fretting over leaders who rise and fall, who say one thing and do another, fix your eyes today upon the truth that Jesus Christ remains “the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). Leaders come and go, but our true King endures. In this truth, we find hope that transcends all earthly kingdoms.
Thankful to be a citizen of a Kingdom that cannot be shaken,
Alex
