Source: Jacob Wackerhausen / Getty
There’s officially a new president and cabinet in office, and Americans have felt a whirlwind of emotions. Whether you’re experiencing feelings of joy, relief, anxiety, frustration, or even confusion, the next few days (and possibly the next four years) promise to be just as overwhelming and emotional. Thankfully, the Bible offers timeless wisdom that can help us navigate these highs and lows, reminding us that regardless of our elected leaders or political outcomes, we can have hope in a higher power. Reflect on the following Bible verses for words of encouragement that can bring you peace, strength, or even a renewed perspective.
RELATED: A Prayer for Wisdom, Unity, and Peace During Election Season
REALTED: How To Build Emotional Awareness
A Verse for Relief
Perhaps you’re just glad this election cycle is over. If you’re looking for some comfort after an overwhelming, tumultuous year, try reading Isaiah 40:29-31 “He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” It’s been a rough few days (few months!) but our strength will be renewed.
A Verse for Disappointment
For many people, the 2024 presidential election did not turn out the way they had hoped. The Bible reminds us that even when things don’t go according to our plans, God’s plans and purpose still prevail.
To help soothe the spirit in time of disappointment, read: Jeremiah 29:11 “’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.’” Be reassured that God has plans for your good.
A Verse for Confusion
Maybe you’re still studying the exit polls to figure out how the election turned out the way it did. Or perhaps you don’t understand why so many people are feeling such extreme emotions following the election results.
In times of confusion when we don’t know which direction to take, God wants us to lean on him. Proverbs 3: 5-6 reads: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
A Verse for Anger
James 1:19-20 reads: “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” While one candidate’s campaign was fueled by messages of bigotry and many of his followers show a propensity toward violence, God does not want us to succumb to rage. He desires more for us.
A Verse for Compassion
Psalm 145:8-9 reminds us, “The Lord is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and rich in love. The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.” In addition to showing compassion for one another, it’s equally as important to show love and kindness to yourself as you’re experiencing the waves of a post-election hangover. Be nice to you.
A Verse for Stress
Regardless of who won, there’s no denying that the lead up to the election was beyond stressful. Between reporting on local news, canvassers and lawn signs everywhere, or various campaigns spamming your phone and email, after the election, many are still recovering from all the overstimulation and political fatigue.
Jesus reminds us Matthew 11: 28-30 that we are entitled to rest. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.“
A Verse for Uncertainty
Whether you’re ecstatic or despondent following the election, change is on the horizon for the country. But when we don’t know what’s coming next, that can create feelings of anxiety and uncertainty.
Philippians 4: 6-7 reads: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” We have no need to fear what the future may bring. Instead, we can look ahead with anticipation and peace of mind knowing God will be in control.
A Verse for Fear
Many marginalized communities may be experiencing anxiety following the election of Donald Trump to a second term where he promises to restrict hard fought rights and liberties. Find peace of mind in this famous verse from Matthew 6:34 “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
A Verse for Regret
There may be some out there who regret their ballot choice or their words and actions following the election results. The Bible offers comfort for remorse, guilt, and grief. 2 Timothy 1:7 reads: “For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.” God does not want us to be weighed down. Practice self-forgiveness and move forward in love.
A Verse for Healing and Reconciliation
Moving forward, maintaining a supportive community more important than ever. God wants the same for us and reminds us in Ephesians 4:2-3, “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”
In this time of division, hatred, and ideological differences, this verse calls us to unity, humility, and love.
A Verse for Hope
However you’re feeling right now, in the days, weeks, months, and years to come, it’s important to keep a mindset toward justice and peace in our government. The road forward is going to involve a lot of work and organizing but as Galatians 6:9 tells us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Better days are ahead for everyone if we don’t give up hope.
DON’T MISS…
7 Bible Verses to Help You Unlock Your Creativity
5 Bible Stories To Strengthen Your Patience
5 YouTube Channels That Bring Bible Study to You
