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“I encourage you to ask God for His help and put your trust in Him. King David said in Psalm 23: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil,” wrote Franklin Graham in a personal message to President Donald J. Trump.
It’s not uncommon for clergy members to build and maintain close relationships with politicians, including sitting and former presidents.
It’s widely known that J. Frank Norris held a unique advisory role and was constantly in communication with President Harry S. Truman.
From his activity on X and ongoing speeches, it’s apparent that Franklin Graham, the son of the late Billy Graham, is not only praying for President Trump but also seeking to encourage him further in his reliance on God.
His father, Billy Graham, set an example few could match. During his lifetime, he maintained a personal relationship with almost all presidents and, notably, grew a genuine friendship with President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
Franklin Graham knows the times are troubling for President Trump and is correct in encouraging Him to seek God, including His wisdom and blessings.
The Scriptures are clear that leaders, including political figures, are subject to the will of God:
“For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. Colossians 1:16”
“For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Romans 13:1”
President Trump is facing much uncertainty with the politically motivated legal attacks and certainly could benefit from constant prayer and encouragement.
The Christian tradition has long taught the imperative call for prayer, including for those in power. The Presbyterian Church in America shares an example:
“Almighty God, our heavenly Father, send down on those who hold public office in federal, state, and local governments the spirit of wisdom, charity, and justice; that with steadfast purpose they may faithfully serve in their offices to promote the well-being of all people; through Jesus Christ our Lord.”
In a similar petition, the Book of Common Prayer reads:
With all our heart and with all our mind, let us pray to the
Lord, saying “Lord, have mercy.”For our President, for the leaders of the nations, and for all in
authority, let us pray to the Lord.
Lord, have mercy.
God’s will is evident in the actions of individuals and nations, as seen in both the Old and New Testaments.
During the Old Testament era, God was by the side of Jewish leaders, granting them blessings when they trusted in Him. On the other hand, if evil ruled in a government, punishment ensued.
God’s guidance is crucial for the United States. While no leader is flawless, Christians should boldly defend their faith and strive for political leaders to honor and uphold Christian values.
President Trump has openly expressed his support for Christians, even suggesting a Christian Visibility Day. Similarly, he hasn’t avoided acknowledging the faith’s historical ties to the nation and its founding principles.
With President Trump’s upcoming legal trials and possible sentencing, Christians are encouraged to pray for divine direction and comfort.
Mixing political matters with Christianity can undoubtedly get messy. Still, regardless of political affiliation, Christians are called to pray, seeking the Lord’s will in every aspect of life.
Without God’s blessings, guidance, and direction, a nation has no hope.
Franklin Graham sets an example by urging President Trump to trust God and encouraging us to pray for him amidst his current difficulties.
