Fear Not: God’s Hand in Elections and Leadership Shifts

Chicago, October 26, 2024 – Election season has arrived again, and with it comes the usual whirlwind of emotions—hope, fear, anxiety, and even frustration. It’s easy to get caught up in the noise. But as believers, we’re called to approach these times differently. We’re not meant to be overwhelmed by uncertainty or fear. God’s sovereignty covers every leadership shift, whether we like the outcome or not.

The Bible reassures us in Daniel 2:21: “He changes times and seasons; He deposes kings and raises up others.”

This verse reminds me that God is never caught off guard. Every leader, policy change, and political shift serves a purpose that’s woven into His greater plan—even if we can’t see it yet. Our job isn’t to panic—it’s to trust and stay faithful in whatever role He’s given us right now.

Leadership Changes: Opportunities, Challenges, and God’s Purpose

I get it—leadership transitions can stir up a lot of emotions. New leaders can bring exciting possibilities, but they can also disrupt familiar rhythms. We might even wonder how certain policies or decisions align with God’s will.

But God doesn’t need perfect leaders to accomplish His work. Remember how He used King Cyrus, a non-believer, to help restore Israel (Isaiah 45)? Or how He called David—a shepherd boy who didn’t fit the mold—to become king? The truth is, God can work through any leader to carry out His will.

That’s why we need to stay anchored in faith over fear. Proverbs 3:5 says it best: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.”

I’ve learned that fear can paralyze us, tempting us to disengage from important conversations or community efforts. But disengagement isn’t the answer. God calls us to stay engaged and shine His light, even in uncertain times.

How I Stay Grounded During Political Transitions

When leadership shifts feel unsettling, I lean on a few core habits that help me stay aligned with God’s peace and purpose. These practices help me show up fully, no matter what’s happening around me.

1. Pray for Leaders, Even the Ones You Didn’t Choose
   1 Timothy 2:1-2 urges us to pray for all leaders—whether we agree with them or not. This isn’t always easy, but prayer shifts my heart and helps me trust that God is at work, even through people I didn’t vote for.
2. Serve Your Community with Intention
   Following Jeremiah 29:7, I focus on seeking the good of my city. It’s easy to feel powerless during elections, but small actions—volunteering, mentoring, or supporting local businesses—make a lasting impact.
3. Replace Fear with Peace through Prayer
   Whenever I start to feel anxious, I turn to Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” This verse reminds me that I don’t have to carry the weight of uncertainty on my shoulders. God’s peace is available to me—and to you, too.

God’s Sovereignty Means We Don’t Have to Fear

Elections might feel overwhelming, but we can rest knowing that God remains in control. Romans 12:2 reminds us to reject the patterns of this world—including fear-driven narratives—and renew our minds in Him: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”

We don’t have to understand every outcome to trust that God is at work. Whether your candidate wins or loses, God’s plans are still unfolding. Our peace comes from knowing that no leader can derail what God has already put into motion.

Let’s Move Forward in Faith, Not Fear

As this election season continues, I encourage you to stay engaged and trust that God is working behind the scenes. Pray for wisdom, serve your community, and above all, trust that God’s hand is guiding every shift in leadership. Remember, Isaiah 41:10 says:

“Fear not, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.”

No matter what happens on election day, let’s choose faith over fear. Let’s be the kind of people who show up in love, peace, and purpose—trusting that the King of kings is still on the throne. That truth is more than enough to keep us grounded.

Faith in Action: Habit Formation for Civic Engagement

I’ve found that building intentional habits helps me stay grounded during seasons of change. Just like habit formation leads to personal growth, consistent engagement in our communities builds long-term impact. Here’s how I apply the same principles I teach in my coaching to civic engagement:

• Be intentional: Set aside time to pray for your city and its leaders.
• Show up consistently: Attend town meetings, vote, or volunteer regularly.
• Stay hopeful: Anchor yourself in the truth that God’s purposes never fail, even when things seem unclear.

When we live this way, we become the salt and light Jesus called us to be. It’s not about who’s in office—it’s about staying faithful to what God has called us to do.

Join the Conversation

How are you staying anchored in faith during this election season? Share your thoughts and connect with us!
Let’s encourage one another as we navigate this season together, trusting in God’s perfect plan.

By Maria Esmeralda (Essy) Rodriguez

Note: Please note that the views and opinions expressed in this blog post are solely those of the writer. These do not necessarily reflect the official stance or position of GodKulture.