After an emotional and grueling campaign season, we have officially elected the 45th President of the United States. One-third of the American people are disappointed, another third are joyous, and the final third are thinking, ‘I am just glad it is all over.’
The past 18 months have created a great divide in not only our nation but among families and friends. Emotions have been high and as a result, hurtful words have been said.
The question now remains: where do we go from here? Sentiments dividing party lines have grown into all-out brawls, and the United States stands at a tipping point. The question is can we, as a nation, respond with maturity, resolution and grace and come back together as “one nation under God?”
As in every election, there are winners and there are losers. Now that the decision has been made, we must focus on healing the rift the election has caused.
Fixing a broken relationship is a long process. Sometimes it can take months or even years. Our unity as a nation will not happen overnight. Bringing together two people who have moved far apart takes time and tremendous effort. Therefore, we must each prepare and be committed to do our part.
The tumultuous season our nation has experienced will require heart-filled compassion. We must not only remember but also exhibit an appreciation for all people, even those with whom we disagree, in order to forgive and move on to healing and restoration.
Finally, now more than ever, it is vital we take time out every day and pray. Pray for our nation as we move past hurtful rhetoric and divisive comments, and pray for the leaders of this country to be filled with wisdom, discernment and strength as they prepare to shoulder responsibility for this nation.
Many right now are likely experiencing post-election anxiety. There is a sigh of relief that it is over, but an overwhelming amount of questions regarding what is next. At the end of the day, the President of the United States can only do so much to help the citizens. We must rely on relationships we have to help us through the most difficult trials – losing them over an election is not worth it.
Stephen Arterburn M. Ed. is the founder and chairman of New Life Ministries, the nation’s largest faith-based broadcast, counseling and treatment ministry, and author of the best-selling book, “Take Your Life Back.”