Does God Choose the Leaders of Nations—and Did He Choose Our Current President?
By Dr. Vincent Rhodes, Ed.S.
In the wake of each election, people from all walks of life—believers and unbelievers alike—ask one burning question: “Did God choose this leader?” Whether we rejoice or lament the results, it’s worth exploring what the Bible says about God’s hand in the appointment of rulers and presidents.
1. God’s Sovereignty Over Nations
The Bible is crystal clear: God is sovereign. That means He holds ultimate authority over all creation—including governments.
Daniel 2:21 (KJV) tells us, “He changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings.” This verse reveals that the rise and fall of leaders are not merely political events—they are spiritual moments within God’s divine timeline.
Similarly, Romans 13:1 affirms this truth in the New Testament: “For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.” That includes kings, presidents, prime ministers, and even lesser-known governors. No leader rises without God allowing it.
2. God's Purposes in Leadership—Even the Ones We Don’t Like
It’s tempting to think that only godly leaders are chosen by God. But Scripture gives us a broader and sometimes more uncomfortable picture. God raised Pharaoh to power in Egypt—not because Pharaoh was righteous, but so that God's name might be glorified (Romans 9:17).
God used Cyrus, a Persian king and a pagan, to rebuild Jerusalem and restore the temple (Isaiah 45:1). Astonishingly, Isaiah even refers to Cyrus as God's “anointed.” So, yes, God can use unrighteous leaders to fulfill His righteous purposes.
3. So, Did God Choose Our President?
Whether we are talking about President Biden, President Trump, or any leader past or future—the answer is yes. If we trust in the Word of God, then we must acknowledge His authority in placing leaders on thrones or removing them.
This does not mean God endorses every action a leader takes. Nor does it mean we should blindly support unrighteous behavior. But it does mean we should seek God's purpose in the midst of each administration and pray for our leaders as Scripture commands.
1 Timothy 2:1-2 (KJV) says, “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority...”
Whether we agree with a leader’s policies or not, the Bible calls us to pray for them. Why? Because they are part of God’s bigger plan—whether for judgment, correction, or blessing.
4. Our Role as Believers
God’s sovereignty doesn’t mean we’re without responsibility. We are called to:
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Pray for wisdom and righteousness to reign.
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Vote and participate in the civic process with discernment.
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Speak truth in love and stand for justice.
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Trust that God is still in control, even when things look chaotic.
Final Thoughts
Does God choose the leaders of nations? Yes.
Did He choose our current president? Yes—either as a blessing, a test, a judgment, or a divine setup for something greater.
As believers, our hope isn’t in political parties or charismatic personalities. Our hope is in the Lord who rules in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever he will (Daniel 4:17).
Want to go deeper into understanding God's role in leadership? I recommend the book "The Sovereignty of God" by A.W. Pink – a classic that helps frame tough questions in light of biblical truth.
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