1 Timothy 2:1-3
"I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that they may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior."
Tuesday night was wild, I am not Ok! Maybe you were like me to wake up on Wednesday morning at 5 am and ask the Lord, “What’s Up?” Perhaps, the election has got you down and social media is inundated with foolishness. Do not fret, and do not lose heart. A true believer knows that God has never lost a battle, and this battle belongs to the Lord. It is ultimately the Lord’s choice that shall prevail. Let me encourage you, the Lord is not slack concerning His promises toward us. We as believers must become more spiritually minded and less carnally responsive to the trolls of the world.
Supporting individuals who are struggling after a stressful election can be particularly important, as many may feel anxious, overwhelmed, or disillusioned. Note: Before you proceed to help others be sure to put the oxygen masks on yourself first.
Here are some ways you can provide encouragement and support:
Acknowledge Their Feelings: Validate their emotions by acknowledging that it’s normal to feel a range of emotions after an election. Encourage them to express their feelings, whether it's fear, anger, confusion, or sadness.
Encourage Reflection: Suggest that they take some time to reflect on what the election means to them personally. This can help them process their emotions and identify their values and priorities moving forward.
Promote Community Connection: Encourage them to connect with like-minded individuals or groups. Whether through community organizations, places of worship, or support groups, finding a sense of belonging can provide comfort and strength.
Focus on Action: Help them identify constructive ways to channel their feelings. This could include volunteering, advocating for causes they care about, or participating in community discussions. Taking action can provide a sense of agency and purpose.
Practice Self-Care: Remind them to prioritize self-care practices, such as exercise, meditation, journaling, or spending time in nature. Encourage them to engage in activities that bring them joy and peace.
Limit Media Exposure: Suggest taking breaks from news and social media if they find it overwhelming. Consuming too much information can exacerbate anxiety and stress.
Seek Support: Encourage them to consider talking to a mental health professional if they are finding it difficult to cope. Professional support can provide valuable tools and strategies for managing anxiety and stress.
Use Faith as a Resource: If appropriate, remind them of the strength and hope that can be found in their faith. Encourage prayer, meditation, or other spiritual practices that can bring comfort and clarity.
Promote Hope: Help them to see that while the political landscape can be tumultuous, change often takes time, and there are many opportunities to engage in positive actions at the local level. Remind them that history shows that resilience and collective action can lead to meaningful change.
Encourage Gratitude: Suggest cultivating an attitude of gratitude by encouraging them to reflect on the positive aspects of their lives, no matter how small. This can shift their focus from despair to appreciation.
By providing a supportive and understanding environment, you can help individuals navigate their feelings and find ways to move forward positively after a stressful election.
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