Political Turmoil, President Trump and the Set Apart Girl

It seems this political cycle has been especially turbulent. Even post-election, tensions are high and social media is overflowing with political arguments, social commentary and opinions galore. There is a restlessness, desperation, and even anger underlying each status update and comment online. Great discontentment, disobedience and even outright hatred are bubbling up across the United States ,and weeks after the election, there is no sign that things will be calming down any time soon. So, what is a set apart girl to do? When you're unsure of what to say or maybe you're firm in your beliefs but they contradict everything people around you proudly proclaim? When your heart grows heavier with every new piece of political news and status update?

When you ache to make a difference but have no idea how to do that?

When you see a hurting and divided world, and you long to be a peacekeeper, a giver of joy and a positive influence in your corner of the world.

Pray without ceasing.

The world may have social media, lobbyists, and protests, but as daughters of the King of Kings, we have something more powerful than all the political tools, technology and social movements combined: a direct line to the One True King - the One who placed kings and presidents in power and has the entire world at His disposal to do His will. And He just happens to be your Father. Which means you can go before His throne with unwavering faith that your petition will be heard.

The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord, like the rivers of water; He turns it wherever He wishes. -Proverbs 21:1

Both the American President and Vice President have shown a reception to the Christian faith and even proclaim to be believers. Which means that there is a good chance they are perceptive to being influenced by God. But, even if they are actually complete heathens and atheists, God can still influence their thoughts and policy. Because He is an almighty God - the one who has built up and torn down kingdoms long before President Trump took office, and there is no indication this president will be the exception to the thousands of other rulers from the beginning of time.

Use your influence wisely. Speak up wisely and in the right time and place. But as always remain in a prayerful state for our country, our leaders and those people impacted by whatever policy or issue is close to your heart. Y'all, no matter what your political views are - whether you like the current leadership or you don't (or you just don't care either way) - it is God's commandment to pray for our leaders. As Charles Spurgeon said, “prayer is the slender nerve that moves the omnipotent muscle of God.”

Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. -1 Timothy 2:1-4

Know what you stand for and why. Remain firm in that.

I've said it before and I'll say it again and again: if you don't know what you stand for, you'll fall for anything. Don't let your mind be swayed or your political and social beliefs be established by a political party, a celebrity, church or the world. Let your foundation be on the Word of God alone. The Bible may not have a political platform with the highlights on every political issue, but it does have guidance on everything you need to know and it has all the answers you seek.

Because a set apart girl doesn't go off on political rambles with a tinge of hatred and disobedience on every social media outlet and to anyone who will listen. Instead, she lives peacefully and intentionally by example, defending her beliefs when asked or when God calls her to speak. She knows her words have power and influence, so she chooses them wisely - always praying beforehand and trusting her Father is in charge. Because her thoughts and beliefs are strongly established on a foundation built by regular Bible study, prayer and the Holy Spirit's teachings.

Watch, stand fast in faith, be brave, be strong. Let all that you do be done with love. -1 Corinthians 16:13-14

Don't be swayed by the world's whims, false doctrines, or social pressures. You know what the Bible says. Remain firm in that. Don't be ashamed if your beliefs end up in the minority or you're mocked and persecuted for being the odd one out with the "old-fashioned" beliefs. You answer to only one King - presidents come and go, but He reigns forever (Psalm 2:2-4).

Take your candle and light the world.

In a world busy throwing mud at each other, pointing fingers, and spreading dissension, there is a thirst for genuine Christianity. You have been created for more, friend. This world needs your talents, skills and your heart for making everything around you better. But more so, God needs your obedience to the work He has called you to do - in this season and beyond. There are a thousand people waiting on the other side of your obedience and in this dark world, you are the light.

Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ, so that whether I come and see you or am absent, I may hear of your affairs, that you stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for faith of the gospel, and not in any way terrified by your adversaries, which is to them a proof of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that from God. -Philippians 1:27

As you observe everything going in the world, if there is something that stands out to you - a cause or an issue, then pray about pursuing a way to get involved in that issue. For example, if reading about the refugee ban raises strong emotions within you - whether its anger, despair, or frustration - then instead of taking to venting on social media or hating on President Trump, pray on what you can do about it (here are seven ways we've listed to help with refugee crisis!). If environmental issues are close to your heart, then find a way to work an environmental government agency, non-profit or go get a degree in the field.

If you want world peace or to stop hunger, research social entrepreneurs and organizations who are tackling these issues, and figure out how you can help. If you see a need, fill it - take classes, read up on the issue, talk to people at the forefront and behind the scenes, pray about it and go for it. Girl, take your candle and light the world.

You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven. -Matthew 5:14-16