Assassination Attempt

On 7/13/24 we watched as an assassination attempt played out before our eyes on President Trump. 

I thought back over these past several years. When did such a deep hatred infiltrate  America? Or the church? We’ve witnessed this hate ever since Trump was elected into office in 2016. I’ve had to listen to office chatter about this "evil" man. I learned that I was “wrong” to stand with him. I was expected to be quiet as the world ripped him apart. We watched as leaders of our country spewed hateful words on our television sets. Words that could have them arrested for their threatening tones.

In my silence, I am reminded that ALL have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23

Including me! I’m sure everyone who knows me can point out my sins. “But by the grace of God I am what I am and His grace toward me was not in vain.” I Corinthians 15:10

God can use whom ever He wants, for any purpose He wants! And maybe this time, He wants to use Trump. Moses murdered an Egyptian, and then led the people of Israel. Rahab, the harlot helped the spies escape by her window.

Like us, the people of Israel sinned against God time and again, as they wandered through the wilderness growing and moaning. As a result they wandered that wilderness for 40 years.

It was Saul in the New Testament that is notably standing by the stoning of Stephen. Stephen’s coat laid at his feet, he consented to his death. In Acts 8:3 we are told that “Saul laid waste the church, and entering house after house, he dragged off men and women and committed them to prison.”

But God. (Watch what happens when God steps in)

For God met Saul on the road to Damascus. After a life-changing experience, Saul was given a new name, Paul. He would journey as one who is sold out for Christ! He became the apostle to the Gentiles in Acts 9:15. Who could have known?

We are human. We all fall short of God’s glory. We aren’t called to judge. In fact, we are told “to judge NOT, that you be not judged. For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and the measure you give will be the measure you get.”

Usually that is enough for me to guard my heart and shut my mouth. 

So, here's the question. Is God’s grace not sufficient for each one of us? When we accept Jesus in our hearts, are we not made new? Scripture tells us we are! Now, we can't claim to know the deep beliefs of the heart of another. But shouldn't we at least trust that God is in control?

I personally believe that God's angel tilted Trump's head ever so slightly to keep him in this race. With a look of strength and a fist raised high, we could see Trump yell; "Fight. Fight."

Unfortunately, a family lost their loved one. Lives were changed in this senseless act. Others affected include an injured one, a suspect and his family, all those who were in attendance and the world that watched. Certainly President Trump and his family.

Isn't it time to put away the hatred and foul talk? Let’s put God first and pray that He will forgive us and lead us. Let's listen more and speak less. Let's turn our hearts toward Jesus. May we submit to God's will and ask Him what we can do to bring our country back to Him. If we seek Him, He promises that we will find Him. If we seek Him with all of our heart. Jeremiah 29:13

Dear Lord, we are sorry for times when our hearts get passionate, when we’re sure that we are on the right side and our anger gets in the way. Help us to submit to you and to pray with honesty that “Your will be done”. Father, have your way in us.

We also remember all those who are affected by this assassination attempt. Strengthen Donald Trump and Melania. We ask for divine protection and thank you for your hand upon his life. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.