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Trump's Inauguration and the Christian Response: Faith Over Fear
As Donald Trump takes the presidential oath of office, psychological experts are offering tips to help those struggling with anxiety about his presidency. While their advice ranges from the obvious to the bizarre, it highlights a deeper truth about where we place our trust and hope.
The World's Coping Mechanisms
The online mental health clinic Modify has released guidelines for managing election-related anxiety. Their recommendations include:
- "Talk to emotionally safe people" - Which appears to mean seeking out those who completely agree with you, effectively encouraging echo chambers rather than genuine dialogue.
- "Distinguish between fact-based news coverage and opinion-based analysis" - While sound in principle, this proves increasingly difficult in practice as most news organizations blend reporting with commentary.
- "Prioritize self-care using the PLEASE acronym":
- Physical illness (tend to health needs)
- Eat nutritiously
- Avoid mood-altering substances
- Sleep adequately
- Exercise regularly
Meanwhile, Time magazine offered their own "11 things to do on inauguration day," including suggestions like:
- Forest bathing (mindfully walking in nature)
- Dancing it out
- Crying with friends
- Going to see performances
- Practicing forced smiles
A Biblical Perspective
While the world scrambles for coping mechanisms, Christians have a more profound source of peace. As discussed during the inauguration ceremony, God remains sovereign over all political transitions. He raises up leaders and brings them down according to His purposes.
The ceremony itself highlighted this spiritual dimension, with Franklin Graham offering a powerful prayer and Trump acknowledging God's role in his path to the presidency. This stands in stark contrast to the visible discomfort some former officials displayed during moments of prayer.
The Church's Response
For believers, this moment presents both opportunity and obligation. With religious freedom protected, there's renewed urgency to share the gospel boldly. As one pastor noted, "We have to double down now that we have four years where we're probably not going to be in prison for sharing our faith."
The focus must remain on eternal truth rather than temporal politics. While Christians can engage thoughtfully with government, our ultimate citizenship is in heaven. Our role is to proclaim God's unchanging truth, not debate it or wish it aligned better with human understanding.
The Path Forward
Matthew 11:28-30 offers enduring comfort: "Come to me all who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me for I am gentle and lowly in heart and you will find rest for your souls for my yoke is easy and my burden is light."
This promise transcends political seasons. Whether rejoicing or concerned about the inauguration, believers can rest in knowing that:
- God remains in control
- His truth stands unchanged
- Our primary calling is to share the gospel
- Our hope rests not in any political figure but in Christ alone
The world may seek comfort in forest bathing and forced smiles, but Christians have a far more secure foundation. As we navigate this political transition, our call is clear: pray for our leaders, share the gospel with renewed vigor, and keep our eyes fixed on Christ, the author and perfecter of our faith.