Leaders Change, But God's Plan Will Prevail
A Faithful Perspective on the 2024 Election
In this year’s U.S. presidential election, undecided voters faced a difficult choice between two candidates—Vice President Kamala Harris and President Donald Trump. For many Americans, especially Black, Latino, and other marginalized communities who have experienced discrimination and are weary of issues like police brutality, inequality, abortion rights, and transgender sharing of public bathrooms, this decision was a heavy one. Some felt that supporting Trump was challenging, even though they saw it as a potential benefit to the economy, particularly in light of mass immigration issues under the Biden administration. No matter which side people fell on, there is one truth that stands above politics: God is in control, just as He has been throughout history.
The Bible offers timeless wisdom for us in moments like these. It teaches that while leaders come and go, God’s sovereignty remains constant. He has used many rulers, both good and flawed, to fulfill His purposes. And through it all, God invites us to trust in His ultimate plan, understanding that leaders are instruments in a much larger story—one that reveals God’s truth, His word, and His prophetic promises.
1. God Allows Leaders for His Purposes – 1 Samuel 8
In 1 Samuel 8, the Israelites asked for a king because they wanted to be like other nations, dissatisfied with the leaders they had. God honored their request but cautioned them about the possible consequences of human leadership. This story reminds us that while we may question or feel unhappy with our leaders, God’s wisdom surpasses our understanding. He allows certain leaders for His own purposes, teaching us to rely on Him even in challenging times.
2. Trusting God’s Influence Over Leadership – Proverbs 21:1
Proverbs 21:1 says, "The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases." Regardless of a leader's history, shortcomings, or political background, God holds the power to influence and guide them. While Donald Trump’s past has caused concern, particularly for Black and Latino communities who have faced systemic mistreatment, this verse reassures us that no leader is beyond God’s reach. He remains actively engaged, using leaders as part of His grand design.
3. Respecting Authority in a Divided World – Romans 13:1-2
Paul’s words in Romans 13:1-2 remind us that "the authorities that exist have been established by God." Respecting authority doesn’t mean ignoring injustices; rather, it encourages a posture of humility and a commitment to peaceful change. In a nation divided over issues like immigration, economic policy, and social justice, respecting our leaders while advocating for justice and peace creates a more unified path forward. Our trust in God’s ultimate authority frees us from despair when earthly leaders seem to fall short.
4. Praying for Leaders – 1 Timothy 2:1-2
As believers, we’re called to pray for our leaders, regardless of who they are. "I urge, then, that petitions, prayers, intercession, and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority" (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Praying for Kamala Harris, Donald Trump, and all leaders can foster change by inviting God’s guidance into their lives. When we lift up our leaders, we seek God’s intervention, asking that they act with wisdom, fairness, and compassion toward all communities, bringing positive change for everyone.
5. Trusting in God, Not Man – Psalm 146:3-5
Psalm 146:3-5 teaches us not to place our ultimate hope in human leaders: "Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save." God alone is our unshakable source of hope. While leaders may fail, God’s love and justice never will. No matter how divided we may feel politically, we can remain united in faith, trusting that God’s guidance surpasses any political figure or agenda.
6. God’s Purpose Through Changing Leadership – Daniel 2:21
Daniel 2:21 reminds us that God "changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others." Leaders, elections, and policies may shift, yet God’s purposes are steadfast. Just as God used leaders in the Bible to fulfill prophecies, we can trust that He is working behind the scenes in our own era. While we don’t know what the future holds, we know that He does, and we can have confidence that His plan includes peace, justice, and redemption.
Faith, Prayer, and the Power of God’s Control
Regardless of who is in office, our role as believers is to trust in God’s sovereignty, to seek unity, and to pray for those who lead us. While some may feel challenged by current issues or divided over policy choices, our faith roots us in a peace that transcends politics. We can pray for fair treatment, financial stability, and equality, knowing that God hears our prayers and uses all things for His greater plan.
Even in the face of political tension, we have a mission: to foster understanding, to stand against injustice peacefully, and to remember that God is in control. We are called to align ourselves with the truth of God’s word, which has guided believers for centuries and still applies today. As we pray and act with love and faith, God will work through our leaders to fulfill His divine purposes, bringing hope and restoration to all.