Keeping Jesus at the centre

Yesterday, I tuned into a Christian podcast that really got me thinking. The host talked about how America is blessed again. He explained that he didn’t feel the country was blessed before, as things seemed to be going downhill, which he saw as a negative trend. But now, he feels that a certain leader has come along, lifting people’s spirits and bringing a renewed sense of happiness and hope.

These ideas sparked my curiosity, so I decided to dive deeper and write about it today. From what I found, it seems many people in America, and even around the world, view the newly elected president as someone who might "save" us or delay a coming judgment. But I think it's important to approach this with a bit of caution.

I came across a post by Donnie Discerned on X (formerly Twitter) that resonated with this thought. He wrote, “As many increasingly hail Trump as the chosen one destined to usher in an era of peace and prosperity, we must remain vigilant and remember that true hope and peace are found only in God’s Kingdom, not in any worldly ‘golden age.’” He referenced 1 Thessalonians 5:3, which I’ll discuss shortly.

(From X)

Many people believe that Donald Trump will bring a "golden age" not just to America but to the whole world. There's a strong cry for peace and safety across many regions in turmoil—Israel, Palestine, Ukraine, Russia, and others where conflict looms.

But in 1 Thessalonians 5:1-6, the Apostle Paul had some words for the church that feel relevant here. “Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates, we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labour pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.”

 But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness, so this day should surprise you like a thief.  You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. So then, let us not be like others who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober.” (NIV)

This passage reminds us that while leaders may bring hope and inspire confidence, our ultimate peace and security come from a higher source. It’s a call to stay grounded in faith, remembering that true, lasting peace is a gift only God can provide—not something that can be fully realized through human promises or political shifts.

Since Trump won the election, calls for peace and safety have only grown louder. In 1 Thessalonians 5:3, the Apostle Paul warns, “While people are saying ‘Peace and safety,’ destruction will come on them suddenly, as labour pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.” He reminds us in verse 2 that the "day of the Lord" will come like a thief in the night, catching many off guard. Paul’s message is clear: the timing is unknown, and the world, absorbed in daily life, is often unprepared for what lies ahead.

It's natural to get wrapped up in the here and now—our daily concerns and hopes. With Trump's victory, some see a "golden age" on the horizon, believing he could usher in lasting peace. Yet, this viewpoint reflects our tendency to see things through an earthly lens. While leaders may inspire optimism, it's vital to remember that true peace and salvation can only come from Jesus, not any human leader.

Our faith reminds us that Jesus alone is “the author and finisher of our faith.” We should place our trust not in individuals, but in Him, looking forward to the eternal peace that comes from being in His presence.

I’m writing this as a reminder that we’re living in the last days, and, as scripture tells us, the day of the Lord will come suddenly. In these times, we need to stay vigilant, not distracted by the events and promises of the world around us. Our focus should remain on Jesus, keeping Him at the center of our lives—not placing our trust in any person, possession, or worldly treasure.

Paul warned us that “while people are saying ‘peace and safety,’ sudden destruction will come.” That day will arrive deceptively, suddenly, and inevitably, with an atmosphere of confidence and security much like we’re seeing today. This is a call to look to Jesus, to keep our eyes on God’s kingdom rather than on any attempt to "make the world great again."

As things continue to change before us, let’s remember the words of 1 Thessalonians 5:6: “So then, let us not be like others who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober.” This call to be “awake and sober” means being watchful—guarding against temptation, laziness, and distraction. Positively, it also means looking forward with hope for our Savior’s return. Now, more than ever, let’s keep our eyes on the eternal and stay ready.

The word sober has multiple layers of meaning. While it can refer to staying free from alcohol or drugs, there are other forms of “drunkenness” that don’t involve substances. Many people become “drunk” on power, wealth, or worldly pleasures. As God’s children, we’re called to remain sober-minded and vigilant. Why? Because these significant events are on the horizon.

I truly believe we’re approaching the time of the Lord’s return. While I don’t know the exact timing, I sense we’re close. As Paul said, “... for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed” (Romans 13:11). So, let’s get ready—get on the Ark, take up your Cross, and let no one extinguish your fire! JESUS is coming soon. If you haven’t accepted Him or don’t know Him yet, now is the time to invite Jesus into your heart while you still can.

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