Post-Election Moving Faith Forward
As I wrestle through my feelings after the 2024 election, I find myself moving through the three-step process I share here because much of my sadness comes from a sense of grief over beliefs that I can no longer confidently hold, at least for this season. Should the process also be helpful to you, then I share it gladly.
Here is a guide to the three-step process related to the recent election. If you feel open to sharing what results from your three steps, I’d love to hear through the form below.
Step One: Place former beliefs in the context of what was happening when you received them.
As the political landscape has shifted toward division, chaos, and violent rhetoric, you might realize that there are some beliefs you used to hold that you no longer do. What are those? You might have thought that women’s rights were advancing in America or that political movements are where you’ve turned for hope.
Once you have your list, consider where those beliefs have come from.
Are there narratives you’ve always told yourself that supported those beliefs?
How old were you when you began developing that belief? What was going on in your life at the time?
What do these beliefs assume about God?
What have those beliefs done for you over the years? Did they offer structure? Assurance? A path to belonging? A sense of security or control?
What feelings as you consider letting go of those beliefs?
Step Two: Begin putting words to beliefs that have stood the test of time.
Even as some beliefs crumble, others still stand strong within you. Think about what you still believe. What have you always believed, carrying you forward through difficult times? Maybe it’s something about resilience, grace, courage, or peace. It could be that peace can still exist within chaos or that political crises bring out the heroes and the helpers. Maybe it’s a reckoning belief about the kinds of changes you expect from political and governmental leaders in your lifetime. These beliefs are your anchor and source of strength, and they empower you to face the uncertainties of life.
Once you have a list of steady beliefs, consider when those beliefs have mattered most to you.
Are there people, places, or rituals from which these beliefs have come?
How have these beliefs appeared during times of instability or chaos?
What do these beliefs assume about God?
What could these steady beliefs offer to you at this moment?
Step Three: Learn to accept what has been, integrate core beliefs, and engage in spiritual practices tailored to your life.
Look back over the beliefs that you no longer hold and the core beliefs. As you’re able to grieve the loss of former beliefs, consider what it would look like to move faith forward with these fundamental, deeply held beliefs. Letting go of an unhealthy belief happens when we can move toward something else. Now is the time to invite these core beliefs to shape how you live your days and move through the world.
Here are some prompts that can help you wonder about spiritual practices that could deepen your core beliefs, accepting that the former beliefs functioned for a time but cannot carry you forward today.
Imagine a tangible thing you could do today that would affirm that core belief. Go ahead and figure out when you can act on that intention today.
Identify others who share your core beliefs. Reach out to them to connect with support and understanding. Remember, you're not alone in your self-reflection and spiritual growth journey.
Is there a specific scripture or religious ritual that resonates with your core belief? Take a moment to read or re-enact the ritual to strengthen that belief. Engaging in these familiar spiritual practices can bring a sense of comfort and reassurance, reminding you of the stability and peace that your core beliefs provide.
