There’s a feeling almost everywhere that there is something seriously wrong in America,” I wrote in my latest book, Spirit-Led Living in an Upside World. That’s stating the obvious for those of us who see the Judeo-Christian values our nation was built on eroding before our eyes. But with the attempted assassination of Donald Trump on July 13 and then the powers that be in the Democratic party forcing President Biden to drop out of the presidential race in favor of Vice President Harris, many non-Christians are saying something has gone wrong.
Trump, not known for being overly spiritual, said at the Republican National Convention, “It was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.” He added: “We will fear not, but instead remain resilient in our faith.” After the attempt on his life, former president Trump appears to be a bit more reflective, more willing to be led by God through the Holy Spirit, versus the bombastic New York real estate king most of us have been familiar with for many years. I think Trump is better situated for election victory than he was eight years ago in 2016.
Here are five reasons that Trump’s difficulties, rough edges and trials might have prepared him to be reelected to the Oval Office and also fulfill the many prophetic words about his two terms in office.
1. Strong Base Support: One of the primary reasons Donald Trump could earn victory is the unwavering support of his base. Despite controversies and polarizing rhetoric which I believe are just the result of his being the “disrupter” we need now, Trump’s supporters have remained loyal. His base repeatedly has shown high voter turnout and passionate advocacy.
Trump’s ability to galvanize his base is a critical factor in his electoral strategy, and that includes many in the Christian community who may not like the Republican party or some of Trump’s tweets but who resonate with his policies, if only because they are the opposite of the Democrat policies.
2. Media Savvy and Communication Skills: Donald Trump’s proficiency in media manipulation and his unique communication style give him an edge over his opponents. Trump’s use of social media, particularly X (formerly Twitter), Truth Social and most recently TikTok, has allowed him to directly reach millions of supporters bypassing traditional media filters. His ability to dominate news cycles, set the agenda and respond rapidly to events have been hallmarks of his political strategy.
3. Economic Messaging: Trump’s focus on economic issues, particularly during his first term in office, resonates with a significant portion of the electorate from both sides and especially the undecided middle. His promises to bring back jobs, renegotiate trade deals and lower taxes appeal to voters concerned about economic security and prosperity, not least in the ongoing aftermath of Bidenomics policies following the Covid pandemic. Many Americans believed they were better off through Trump’s first term.
4. Outsider Persona: Trump’s “maverick” style as a political outsider continues to be a compelling narrative for many voters. His ability to position himself against the so-called “deep state” establishment resonates with many who have grown more disillusioned with traditional politics over the past few decades. This outsider image contrasts sharply with the public perceptions of leading Democrats who often are seen as part of the elite of the deeply entrenched political class.
5. Polarizing Figure: While being a “disrupter” can be a double-edged sword, for Trump it often works to his advantage by solidifying his support base. His ability to evoke strong emotional responses, both positive and negative, keeps him at the center of political discourse, optimizing every angle from the middle against his opponents and their perpetual allies across the media landscape.
I believe God’s hand is on Donald Trump, not because he is a righteous man but because God has allowed him to be raised up as an outsider as He did with King Jehu in the Old Testament, the one who defeated Queen Jezebel. Now we see a miracle in Trump’s life being spared and we see his political foes in disarray.
However, we cannot be complacent, we must discern the times and we must pray that America will turn toward the Lord. It will take more than a political election to do that in what already is turning out to be the most upside-down election in American history.
Stephen Strang has seen major changes in the church, the culture and technology since he founded Charisma magazine in 1975. In addition to being CEO of Charisma Media, he hosts a Strang Report podcast live on YouTube and Rumble at 4 p.m. EST every Tuesday and Thursday. His important recent book Spirit-Led Living in an Upside-World is available wherever fine Christian books are sold d including online at amazon.com.