With the aftermath of the election, our country seems to be growing more and more divided. Some people are excited to see the change that is coming with the inauguration of Donald Trump while others are fearful of that change he is bringing. Whether they think the change will be positive or negative, most people can agree that there will be some major changes over the course of these next four years. While it seems that we are all just bystanders waiting to watch what will happen and unable to do anything about it, we forget what the most important thing we should be doing is: praying.

Prayer is the most powerful thing we can do if we want to see change, far more powerful than any protesting or rioting that seems to be all too common these days. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Instead of worrying about what the future holds for America, we should instead pray about any worries we have and trust God to take care of them.

I pray not only for President-elect Donald Trump, but all of the people in a government office in our country. I pray that they each make the best possible choices for the citizens of this country and that they seek God’s will first and foremost in every decision made. I pray that people will show them compassion and forgiveness when they mess up every now and then. I cannot fathom the stress and weight upon their shoulders they must feel each day knowing how many people will be affected by their decisions.

I pray that people will love one another as Jesus loves us. That despite what political party they affiliate with, their socioeconomic class, or religion, people will see the best in one another. This world can be a cruel place if we allow it, but we can each make the choice to set aside our egos and stubborn tendencies and learn to get along. We may all have many differences but that’s what makes us great.

I pray most of all that the people of America will realize that far more important than whomever sits in the Oval Office is the one who sits on the throne in Heaven. As John 16:33 states, “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” God has always and will forever be in control. He has a perfect plan for each one of our lives and even in the worst of times, He is in control of it all. We just have to lay it all at His feet and trust in Him. Pray each and every day for His guidance and help in your life and the troubles of this world will seem more and more trivial.