Hope Lives

As I am writing this, it is just after 2:00 on Election Day. The polls are still open. The votes have not been completely tallied.

Whatever the outcome, there is bound to be plenty of discussion over the next few days. Yet, no matter who is elected to be our next President, there is a hope in my heart that God is still in complete control of every aspect of our lives, and has a plan for our country that involves one of the Presidential candidates.

I'll admit that the current Presidential race is a hot topic, for both major parties. I won't get into politics here; my point is that there is bound to be a lot of Americans who will be disappointed and/or upset when the winner is announced. "How can God let this happen?" is a question that may be asked.

I am reminded of things that happened that only began to make sense years after they took place. Everything from why I wasn't rehired at a certain school, to historical figures such as Joseph, Moses and Pharaoh. We are told that God hardened Pharaoh's heart. We are also told to respect those in authority over us, because they are established by God.

But what if we don't agree with the leaders who are over us? Does God really allow poor leaders into positions of power? Yes. Why? We may never know in this life. God's understanding of world events is far beyond ours. We may be granted a glimpse of God's purpose, at some point down the road.

While we may never know why God allows certain things to happen, like the current Global Food Crisis or AIDS epidemic. However, it may be, at least partially, to wake us up, to bring us out of our complacency and do something about it. We as Christians can partner with others to do our part to have our voices heard to our representatives, and also give financially to get help to those who need it, as we are each able.

We are not given the ability to understand why God allows bad things to happen. Even so, we can trust Him to be God, to have a plan, and to be able to bring that plan to fruition. It is for this reason that hope lives in me.

Romans 8:28