Put Not Your Trust in Politicians

In the upcoming US presidential race, many voters are unenthusiastic about either candidate. Voters, who are enthusiastic about a candidate, often dislike the other candidate intensely. Political pundits describe the upcoming presidential election as the most important in our history, although we’ve heard this pronouncement for many prior elections.

The upshot of these circumstances seems to be an inordinate amount of fear, anxiety, and conflict. Do you long for a peaceful escape from these negative consequences?

Consider starting with Psalm 146: 3-4, which says, “Do not put your trust in princes, in mortal men, who cannot save. When their spirit departs, they return to the ground; on that very day their plans come to nothing.” Read the first sentence to say ‘Put not your trust in politicians, for they are only mortal humans.’

If not politicians, whom can we trust? Psalm 146 recommends trusting God, “the Maker of heaven and earth…, who remains faithful forever…, upholds the cause of the oppressed…, lifts up those who are bowed down…, and frustrates the ways of the wicked.”

Jeramiah 29:11 was written for the Jews in captivity, but it reaffirms the loving spirit of God. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Without ignoring the importance of politics, I find that embracing these passages and trusting God can offset today’s political negativity and provide meaningful peace.