Religious leaders offer 5 prayers to alleviate election anxiety.
Faith leaders suggest that prayers can ease the stress that comes with elections.
During this election season, it's common to experience anxiety and a loss of control as we navigate through a significant period of transition.
Leaders from diverse faiths discussed strategies for maintaining trust in God during uncertain times, including specific Bible verses and personal prayers for solace and relief.
Read on for their thoughts shared with Planet Chronicle Digital this November.
‘Do not be anxious about anything'
National Religious Broadcasters president and CEO Troy A. Miller, based in Washington, D.C., shared with Planet Chronicle Digital the specific verses he turns to when he feels anxious about issues, including the upcoming election.
He cited these words from the Bible: "Do not worry about anything, but in every circumstance, through prayer and supplication, with gratitude, offer your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will protect your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7).
"He said, "You have likely given considerable thought to voting, including when to vote and what the results will mean for America." These verses provide clear guidance on experiencing peace in all circumstances."
"By seeking God's will, asking for help, and remembering that He is in charge, we will discover the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding," Miller stated.
"While we fervently pray for our country and vote according to our beliefs, let us entrust our worries to God, who governs both the nation and the world," he stated.
‘God works for the good’
Dream Church International's senior pastor, Işık Abla, is the author of several Christian books and shared her thoughts with Planet Chronicle Digital. She emphasized the importance of trusting in God's sovereignty during uncertain times, stating that it is crucial to rest in the knowledge that He is working, even when outcomes are unclear.
She observed the verse: "For all things, God works to the benefit of those who love him and have been called according to his plan" (Romans 8:28).
Despite differing opinions and intense emotions, believers can find peace in the knowledge that God's plan is beyond human control.
Abla stated that prayer can be a powerful tool for calming stressed minds and seeking divine guidance.
Despite the outcomes, God is faithfully coordinating everything for His purpose and glory, she added.
‘Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever’
Grace Community Church's Pastor Jesse Bradley emphasized that Jesus is our "Rock of Uncertainty," "Prince of Peace in Transition," and "Good Shepherd in Stress."
He referenced the verse "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" from Hebrews 13:8.
"The love of God cannot be separated from us," said Bradley.
During periods of change, God's word remains constant, according to Bradley.
"The Gospel message that Jesus died for our sins and rose from the grave is always good news," he said. "God will never abandon us or forsake us. Trials will pass. God's grace is sufficient. God's promises remain steadfast."
‘You have overcome the world. We trust you’
Bradley penned a prayer for individuals grappling with anxiety amidst the current circumstances and made it available to Planet Chronicle Digital.
"God, our Father, we thank you for your presence. You are the source of comfort and joy in our lives. Your passion is a fire in our souls, and our lives are filled with purpose," the prayer begins.
"We choose to remain with you today, Lord. You have conquered the world. We trust in you. We request your compassion, wisdom, and courage as we serve our neighbors and praise you. Forgive us, Lord, for our sins, and heal our land. We pray in Jesus' name. Amen."
‘Please keep us all safe and united’
Rabbi Daniel Rowe of Aish, a global Jewish organization that motivates individuals to lead more contemplative, spiritual, and purposeful lives, disclosed a prayer he penned to Planet Chronicle Digital.
His prayer emphasizes the importance of trusting in God and being mindful of the humanity of those with differing viewpoints.
"As the God of the world, I am faced with fears about the future and negative emotions towards those whose beliefs I disagree with. I pray for guidance in letting go of my role as God and embracing my role as a servant to others, including my fellow citizens and all of humanity."
"Remember that elections are fleeting. Recognize that while our opponents have their mistakes, so do we all. Understand that they, like us, aim for the country's welfare and that our fates are intertwined, bound together under God."
He continues to pray, "Lord, help me understand that no matter the result, I must always strive to be a source of unity and goodness in the world. Help me recognize my role in Your grand plan and play it to the best of my ability. Keep us all safe and united, bringing out the best in each other and building a brighter future together."
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