Published on July 19, 2024, 12:38 am

Familiar to all, yet still shocking, news broke of an assassination attempt on the former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The audacious assailant atop a proximal building who opened fire was quickly neutralized by a Secret Service sniper. However, this brazen act led to casualties and injuries among the spectators at the rally. This distressing incident serves as a sobering testament to human depravity heightened amid our present volatile political climate.

Sentiments against Trump have been rampant and are largely propagated by those firmly opposed to his every stance. From a Christian worldview, concerns about Trump’s recent policy changes— notably his disheartening concession on abortion— ring genuine. Forgoing the conservative stance on such vital matters for seemingly practical approaches undeniably elicits disappointment.

However, there is another narrative tied to Trump that’s even more sinister—the perpetually swelling anti-Trump sentiment. A variety of factions ranging from those in far-left media to notable Evangelical personalities like Russell Moore and David French have spent almost 12 years manufacturing distorted narratives around Trump, labeling him with derogatory titles from white supremacist Nazi sympathizer to an unhinged lunatic driven by profit-oriented motives. Although we do not stand up for Trump’s personal ethics, such embellished narratives play into creating an atmosphere rife with fear and hostility surrounding his presidency which contributed significantly to the recent tragic event we witnessed.

As consumers of trusted news, while we process this assassination attempt which was thwarted successfully allowing for Trump’s survival, it’s crucial not to lose sight of God’s overriding control over all happenings. Scripture reiterates God’s sovereignty in dealing out reigns and setting down rulers as per His divine will (Daniel 2:21).

Each breaking news story about another improbable event only bolsters the need for reliance on God above mortal men. Divine intervention sparing Trump may serve varied purposes; whether it be further plunging Trump into obstinacy akin to the Pharaoh during the biblical plagues (Exodus 9:12), or perhaps even an act of divine mercy allowing him a chance to turn around, repent and submit to the Gospel. Albeit his claims of being Christian, Trump has shown limited comprehension of his standing before God and thus portrays an excessive self-confidence. He deems no need to seek forgiveness as he believes his actions haven’t necessitated it.

A worrisome cohort amidst self-proclaiming Christians have placed Trump on an almost messiah-like pedestal. Ranging from charismatic false prophets who manipulate scripture, painting Trump as a savior in end times, to those who blindly trust in his word; this is fervent idolatry.

Our unwavering hope should reside solely in Christ and not any political leader (Psalm 118:8). As for casting my vote in light of current events and recent policy shifts, it’s a tightly weighed conscious decision still pending. Biden or the Democrat party is not an option considering my Christian worldview. Irrespective of what I decide, turning too far right wouldn’t be my reason behind rejecting Trump or the Republicans, rather their lack of conservative views compared to Scripture.

In conclusion, do what you consider morally correct but always bear in mind that our ultimate reliance doesn’t lie with worldly leaders but rather with God alone. It’s useful to remember that while we are immersed in real news revolving politics and leaders fighting for supremacy, they all come under God’s sacred rule which transcends our earthly boundaries.