Many white suburbanites in the North Dallas area are confused and frustrated today as they contemplate the next four years under President Obama. Why the confusion and frustration? Are we racists? Are we selfish greedy capitalists? Do we lack compassion for the less fortunate? Are we right-wing Bible thumping ultra-conservative Christians? Are we the remnants of modernity struggling to adapt to a postmodern world? Some of us – yes. Others of us – no.
If the answer to the above questions is no, then why are we confused and frustrated after Tuesday’s election? Let me suggest we have failed to remember Daniel 4. The prophet Daniel reminded the great King Nebuchadnezzar that “the Most HIgh is sovereign over the kingdoms of men and gives them to anyone He wishes.” (Daniel 4:25)
God reigns over our nation and all nations. He, and He alone, is sovereign. He raises up one kingdom and tears down another as He desires. Do we trust in HIm or over time we have come to trust in our military and economic might to keep us safe and powerful? Do our hearts turn to Him or have we worshipped at the altar of self-reliance and self-preservation? All we have and all we are is God’s gift to us. We need to return to trusting in Him, honoring HIm, worshipping HIm, and submitting to HIm.
Democrats are not the answer to America’s problems. Neither are Republicans. It isn’t about tax rates, free trade, NAFTA, the war in Iraq, sharing the wealth, black or white, conservative or liberal. It is about God. The greatness of America has been found in her submission to the sovereignty of the Most High God.
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its water roar and foam, and the mountains quake with their surging.” Psalm 46:1-3
Banks close. Mortgages fail and foreclosures rise. Jobs are lost. War rages on. Worries increase. Fear grows. Frustration boils over. How can President elect Obama face such overwhelming issues? Perhaps he and all of us need to remember HIm who stands in the midst of the storm and says, “Be still, and know that I am God.”
Don’t be confused: turn to God. He is our answer. Don’t be frustrated: God is still sovereign…He is still gracious.
