Lord, political elections expose how divided we’ve become as a nation,  and the fear we associate with the men and women put into office. They heighten our awareness that in this world there is much to be afraid of. The news is rarely good—every week brings headlines of school shootings, terrorist attacks, natural disasters, and other tragedies. No matter where we look, we’re told to choose fear over faith.

We need your Spirit’s assurance that no matter what’s going on around us, we don’t need to be terrified. You’re with us in every moment and you are in control of all things. Even when we feel paralyzed by fear from yesterday’s crisis or tomorrow’s threat, we can put our trust in you. You alone are our strength and will work out all things according to your perfect plan.

Help us to choose faith over fear since you hold our family through the darkest days and the most difficult of circumstances. We want to believe your Word when you declare you’re the One who raises up leaders and brings them down. You love justice and mercy and one day will right every wrong.

Guard our hearts from putting our hope in this world that can only bring disappointment. Instead, give us your perfect peace through the love of Jesus Christ our Lord.

Amen.

So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

All who rage against you will surely be ashamed
and disgraced; those who oppose you
will be as nothing and perish.
Though you search for your enemies,
you will not find them.
Those who wage war against you
will be as nothing at all.

For I am the Lord your God
who takes hold of your right hand
and says to you,
Do not fear; I will help you.
(Isaiah 41:10-13)