Chaos or Calm? by Ken Weliever, The Preacherman

https://thepreachersword.com/2020/11/03/chaos-or-calm/#more-17676

Chaos or Calm?

While settling into my little corner in the Hampton Inn lobby to write today’s post, the lady working the front desk walked by and asked, “Are you ready for all the chaos that’s about to unfold today?”

I chuckled to myself. I already had decided to share a few thoughts about our attitudes and actions on this Presidential election day.

My new “friend” further opined that the chaos would not end today, predicting post-election problems, discord, and disorder. She may be right. Some businesses in downtown Indianapolis, as well as Washington, D.C., and a number of other major cities are boarding up their windows, fearing post-election riots, and looting.

Since 2020 has been such an unpredictable and unprecedented year, who knows what will happen? We may not know the election results tonight, tomorrow, or for a few days or weeks. But I predict this. When the dust settles and the winners are announced, about 50% of our citizens will be glad. And the other 50% will be sad. Some even dismayed. Upset. Angry. Worried. And distressed.

While mental health experts have been talking about the stress people are feeling leading to the election, they’re also talking about post-election stress. Yet, whatever chaos that may erupt and ensue following the election, and whatever stress that may be pervasive in our nation, Christians have reasons to remain calm.

I’m reminded of Jehovah’s advice through the prophet Isaiah. The nation of Judah was facing a perilous period during the days of King Ahaz. Assyria was growing stronger. The king was afraid. He was trusting more in political alliances than the power of God.

God then instructed Isaiah to meet Ahaz and offer this counsel. “Say to him, “Be careful, keep calm and don’t be afraid. Do not lose heart…” (Isa. 7:4).

Calmness, however, does not naturally occur. Deciding to be calm is a determined response instead of an emotional reaction. It demands discipline. Requires the right focus. And calls for courage, strength, and fortitude.

Keep calm, because…

…God is more powerful than any political party.

…God is provincially at work behind the scenes.

…God can use whoever is elected to accomplish His purpose.

…God’s will for you transcends this life.

…Your fears, concerns, and challenges will be eased by your trust in God.

…Your faith will sustain you through whatever chaos will ensue.

…Your hope will provide a perspective beyond political issues, social concerns, and worldly problems.

…Your prayers are heard by a God who loves you, cares about your concerns, and will ease the burdens of your mind.

…Your life is founded on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ.

…Your citizenship is in heaven. You’re just a sojourner here.

I would urge my brothers and sisters to exercise a calm and measured response on social media. Regardless of the results, refrain from outlandish accusations, unkind retorts, unfounded conspiracy theories, and vitriolic posts that incite anger and kindle strife.

Let’s rise above the chaos of our current social and political climate. Let’s be light in a world of darkness. Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness. Be peaceful when there are protests. Maintain the unity of Christ’s Body in a divisive culture. Be thankful for our blessings. And “do all things without complaining or arguing” (Phil. 2:14)

Keep calm.

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman