Shutdown 2025: A Precursor Of Things To Come: But Don’t Worry, God Is Still In Charge!

By Sister Cheryl Leader

Children of God, when we face extreme hardships, do our lives (our words and actions)

demonstrate genuine trust in God’s ultimate sovereignty; do we really believe that nothing is

outside of His plan? Is our faith in Jesus more than just lip service? When evil seems to

operate in power, even believers in Christ Jesus may begin to wrestle with doubt. We may

complain, question God’s divine authority, His rule, His plan, and His will – and sometimes, in our pain, we even accuse Him unjustly. We may find ourselves crying out, “Lord, are You just sitting back, ignoring our constant cries for Your divine intervention? Don’t You see that we’re trying to serve You wholeheartedly, yet it seems that the rich keeps getting richer while those less fortunate can’t catch a break. Don’t You even care that this shutdown has devastated people’s lives and caused children’s empty stomachs to roar louder than their cries of sorrow?”                       

“Father God, although “all authority originates from You” Romans 13:1, do You care that

those in authority are misusing their power? Consequently, the cessation of government

operations has negatively affected crucial public services and disproportionally affected

vulnerable communities. Lord, are You deliberately withholding Your grace and mercy from us while chaos and confusion continue to increase in our nation? Feeling like helpless pawns who are caught in the crossfire of their political dispute, WE are forced to bear the brunt of their political conflict. Even when we ask You to save them, fill them with wisdom, and turn them from their ungodly paths, it feels as though our prayers have gone unanswered as their apathetic tendencies continue to be felt.” As Christians, when we are suffering, it can be difficult for us to, “endure hardship as a good soldier” (2 Timothy 2:3-4); “resist temptation” (2 Timothy 2:22) and obey God’s commands to, “love our enemies and pray for the well-being of those who are persecuting us” (Matthew 5:44). In addition, when

some are lacking the basic necessities, it’s also becoming more challenging to “trust God

with all of our heart…” Proverbs 3:5-6) or even “submit to or respect apathetic

governing authorities” (Romans 13:1). Unfortunately, when some people feel oppressed by

cruel and unreasonable authority, they may become so infuriated that they will seek to avenge their suffering. However, according to (Hebrews 10:30) “vengeance belongs to the Lord; He will judge them.”

Even though God commands us to obey the government, however, if the law directly

contradicts God’s perfect law, in that case, we are to OBEY GOD FIRST AND

FOREMOST! Considering the current state of affairs, as a nation, since we are becoming more prone to drift far away from the Lord; consequently, the inevitable result is that our nation will become increasingly chaotic. Like Israel, who was punished for disobeying the Lord (Deuteronomy 28:1) when integrity is compromised, when moral values are lost and when our nation has “become so corrupt that right and wrong have been inverted” (Isaiah 5:20) this can lead to Divine judgment and the downfall of our nation!

Saved or unsaved, the principle of accountability extends to every leader who ultimately is

accountable to God for the decisions they make. Although it appears that some of our

government officials act as though they have the privilege of acting solely on their own

desires or judgments apart from God’s will, one day, they (we all) will stand before God and

give an account for their words, actions, and decisions; additionally, according to (Luke 12:47-48) those in positions of leadership will be judged more strictly. Regarding believers, God declared, “If My people, who call My name, will humble themselves, pray, seek My face, and turn from THEIR evil way, THEN I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin and Heal

Their Land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14). Although God originally spoke these words to King

Solomon as a promise to the nation of Israel, the principal still applies to Christians today.

As “salt and light” (Matthew 5:13-16), when we compromise our moral standards and fail to live a life that reflects our faith, when we disobey God’s commands, not only will our godly

influence diminish, but we have also contributed to the moral decay of our nation. However, by fully obeying God’s Word, our nation would be in a better position to receive God’s

intervention.

When I converse with some Christians, the focus of the discussion is sometimes consumed

with President Trump’s improper use of power. Although I am not saying that we should not

have healthy discussions regarding the misuse of governing power, however, when we

become so fixated and obsessed on President Trump’s unethical conduct more often than

talking about our praise of Jesus for His governing supremacy, it’s as though we are

elevating his temporal and limited human authority to an omnipotent and almost sacred

sovereignty. Not only does this lead to our unintentional neglect of God’s supreme authority,

but we have unknowingly made President Trump our idol – which God finds abominable. Just as the conversation ends, with a tone of skepticism, it appears that some Christians tack on a dubious “God is in control” as an afterthought. Do our lives (our words and actions) demonstrate genuine trust in God’s ultimate sovereignty, or are we using this phrase only a Christian cliché to tag along?

God alone is the only ONE who has complete control over those who are in authority. Their

rise to power and their eventual fall is determined by His will. A leader’s position is a privilege and NOT for personal gain. They are required to serve their nation with integrity, courage, and humility, protect the people, provide for their needs, and lead with justice for the Benefit of All people. While some arrogant leaders may believe that they have been granted complete control over everything and everyone, they have failed to realize that God Almighty has NEVER surrendered His absolute power over to them! The same God who raises them up, can also humble them, or remove them from office. This happened to King Nebuchadnezzar. Because of his pride and arrogance, God banished him from human society and made him lose his mind, act like an animal, eat grass and live with wild animals for 7 years (Daniel 4:28-33). Although God is loving and patient, “Do not be deceived into thinking that you can rebel against His laws without consequences; for whatsoever you sow, that shall you also reap...now or later.” (Galatians 6:7). 

Despite all the traumatic events that are occurring in our nation, we must remain mindful that, “we are engaged in a spiritual battle” and that our fierce conflicts are not against

physical government individuals or those in positions of power (Ephesians 6:10-18).

Just like Satan used Judas, the religious leaders and government officials to fulfill his evil

mission against Jesus, that same wicked spirit is also influencing some of our government

leaders without their knowledge (Luke 22:3; Matthew 27:24-26). 

Because Satan fears the God-given power and authority that believers possess over his evil

kingdom, as he operates covertly behind the spiritual realm, he’s doing everything in his

wicked power to weaken our faith, destroy our testimonies and the godly impact that we have in the world. As he works relentlessly to ruin our lives, separate us from God, enslave us to our fears, stresses, doubts, and anxieties, he’s also attempting to subtly cause us to shift our focus from, “relying totally on God’s mighty weapons, to the feebleness of our own human strategies in this spiritual conflict.” (2 nd Corinthians 10:3-4). Not only should we, “Not be taken by surprise when our faith is being severely tested, but we also must understand that demonic forces will stop at nothing to achieve their evil mission” (1 st Peter 4:12)… even if it means that we and our loved ones will be grossly affected by the government shutdown.

However, we don’t have to worry if we truly believe that God is still in control!

Although feeling fear when we have been deeply affected by the federal shutdown or any

other crisis, is a completely natural human response, however, the Holy Spirit does not want

any of His children to fall into the enemy’s trap of remaining in a state of paralyzing fear and

uncertainty. According to (Isaiah 41:10) God states, “Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Do

not be dismayed. I am your God. I will strengthen you. I will help you. I will uphold you

with My victorious right hand.” If we allow unhealthy fear and anxiety to control our lives, it

is a sign that we are either partially clothed with God’s armor, we are completely exposed or, it is an indication of our lack to fully trust in God’s ability to strengthen and help us through our challenging times. However, “once we are dressed with the FULL armor of God, we will be able to successfully take our stand against the devil’s fiery schemes”. (Ephesians 6:11).

Since our God is the “Creator of all things” (Colossians 1:16), He reigns supreme over

Satan and his demonic entourage, over every government official, every injustice, every

power, every principality, and every authority. God has an appointed time when He will,

“disarm every evil power and authority and triumph over them all!” (Colossians 2:15).

Although it may sometimes appear that Satan is prevailing in this spiritual battle, God knows

the precise moment when his time will come to an end. Until then, we don’t ever have to allow our fiery circumstances to shake us by surprise or dictate our faith. Instead, as long as our trust remains steadfast in the Lord, we will stay anchored in His unfailing promises!

Furthermore, when the government exploits our vulnerabilities to enforce their will, or

use our needs as leverage to demand submission, since our Heavenly Father’s ways are

always rooted in love and righteousness, and not in coercion, unlike wicked leaders, God

will NEVER hold us hostage, threaten or manipulate us into submission! 

In the last month our country has been concerned with vital human needs such as food

insecurity, and concerns about the affordability, access, and quality of its healthcare;

additionally, our nation continues to experience widespread concern over financial insecurity, coupled with significant anxiety about an uncertain future. While fear is a natural human emotion, followers of Christ Jesus can live without worry, fear, or insecurity, as God is our Sustenance, our Provider, and our “Bread of Life” (John 6:35). Even when facing health care concerns, we can always turn to God - trusting that “He remains our ultimate Source of health, comfort, strength and restoration” (1 st Peter 2:24). Even as people worry about the future, Scripture reminds us in (Jeremiah 29:11), “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for your welfare and not to harm you, but to give you a future

filled with hope.” Those who are experiencing joblessness, financial hardship, or unmet

needs, God assures us that, “He will provide every need according to His purpose, plan,

will and His unlimited riches…” (Philippians 4:19).

Although the government shutdown has had a significant impact on the military, as

believers, we are not to place our trust in human strength or military might. Scripture

reminds us, “Some people trust in chariots, and some people trust in horses, (may I add,

some people trust in modern military strength and technology, some people trust in

fallible human power and systems to protect them and some people trust in worldly

resources), but God’s people will put their ultimate confidence in the name of the Lord

and His unfailing promises to protect us .” (Psalm 20:7). Even when all human efforts fail,

we are encouraged to look to Jesus as our Ultimate Source of strength and security.

It’s so comforting to know that despite shortages and scarcities caused by the shutdown,

God’s storehouse is never empty for those who reverence Him. Although God alone is

enough, no matter how severe our test is, sometimes, in His Divine wisdom, God allows us

to go without so that we may grow more dependent on Him. While the Bible does not

promise, wealth, or a life free from hardships, it does assure us that everyone who calls upon His name will receive an answer – sometimes in ways we do not expect. 

Even amid widespread flight cancellations and interruptions caused by the shutdown,

the supernatural flight that can NEVER be grounded, stopped, delayed, cancelled or

shutdown, is called, The Rapture! It is impossible for anyone or any demonic force to

interfere with God’s supernatural plan to rapture His people! Without a doubt, when it’s time for Christians to be “caught up” to meet the Lord in the air (1 st Thessalonians 4:16-17), this

one-way flight will occur on time, and exactly as God has promised – uninterrupted and

unstoppable!  Unfortunately, since the government shutdown has disrupted essential

services and brought significant hardships and challenges to many, don’t worry, God is still

in control and His presence and sustaining grace will never leave us alone in our

struggles. Whatever we are facing, God can deliver us from it or through it. As a

precursor to even greater challenges ahead, we can use this traumatic shutdown

experience to teach us to trust God more deeply, and to prepare our lives to endure

more intense hardships and persecutions, which are yet to come. Additionally, this difficult

experience can also help us to remain steadfast in prayer, continue studying and meditating on God’s Word, seeking His guidance and strength, and never surrender to the tormenting spirit of fear, which, in the long run, will undermine our faith. 

If we find ourselves being paralyzed by fear, God encourages us to confess our fears to Him as well as to other believers. Also, when the enemy attacks our minds with his lies, it is vitally important that we immediately replace his lies with God’s truth. When we place our trust in God, He will provide us with His supernatural strength, peace and courage to confront and overcome our challenges. Additionally, the Holy Spirit will also give us clarity of thought and the ability to make sound decisions, rather than being controlled by fear, anxiety or what the media tells us. When powerful, diabolical adversaries emerge, we can CHOOSE to act in faith- trusting God to guide us through every challenge.

Although it can be difficult to resist the desire to seek vengeance against those leaders who

played a role in the shutdown, however, God commands us to, “Pray for all those in

authority, so that we may live peaceful and quiet lives, …and devote ourselves to God’s

Word.” (1 st Timothy 2:1-4). We can start by praying that God will help our leaders to submit

their lives to Him, that they would speak truth, and allow God to take full control over their

decisions and actions. Additionally, pray for their protection, their health, their salvation and

their spiritual growth.  Let’s pray that our leaders would be surrounded by godly men and

women, and that they would be fair to all people. Pray that their conscience would be guided by integrity, by the Holy Spirit and that they would find common ground to resolve this and another important issues that affect our nation. Even though the government shutdown may feel like a precursor of things to come, because the Bible teaches us to “walk by faith and not by sight” (2 nd Corinthians 5:7), in order to do this, don’t worry, but stay grounded in God’s Word; for He alone can offer us unimaginable peace, godly wisdom, security, endurance, faith, courage, strength, direction, a firm foundation as well as supply our needs. (Philippians 4:19).

When Paul and Silas were unjustly beaten and imprisoned, they refrained from complaining or making false accusations against the Lord regarding their unfair treatment. Instead, the Bible said that they made a conscience decision to declare their love and trust in God by

worshipping Him with fervent prayer and boisterous singing. In the midst of their zealous

enthusiasm, I can imagine, when the Earth heard this 2-men worship and praise team rejoicing and thanking God for being counted worthy to suffer for the Lord’s name, Mr. Earth became so overjoyed that he responded with a powerful Earthquake that shook the prison, forced open all of the doors, and freed all of the prisoners! (Acts 16:25-32). During our fierce troubles, if we want to experience a supernatural breakthrough, LET’S NOT WAIT FOR THEBREAKTHROUGH IN ORDER TO PRAISE GOD, BUT INSTEAD, LET’S PRAISE HIM, WORSHIP HIM, SING AND SHOUT TO HIM NOW… WHILE WE’RE STILL WAITING FOR OUR MIRACULOUS BREAKTHROUGH TO OCCUR!

In due season, the Holy Spirit will miraculously break spiritual chains of oppression (Isaiah

58:6), He’ll open the floodgates of Heaven and release Heavenly blessings, (Malachi 3:10;

Ephesians 1:3) He’ll keep us in perfect peace (Isaiah 26:3) and bring us through our lonely

moments (Isaiah 41:10). According to His will, God will restore what was lost (Joel 2:25); He

promises not to withhold any good thing from those who live a righteous life! (Psalm 84:11).

Brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus, even when things become worse, HOLD ON JUST A

LITTLE WHILE LONGER AND DON’T EVER GIVE UP OR LOSE HOPE IN THE LORD!