As Israel and the United States face consequential elections, Rabbi Josh Wander is urging the Jewish people to remember that political participation alone is not enough. While voting, campaigning, and advocating for righteous leadership are important responsibilities, prayer must remain central to the political process.

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In a powerful reflection on the spiritual significance of elections, Rabbi Wander argues that Election Day should inspire a sense of reverence and dependence on God. After all, the leaders chosen at the ballot box can shape the destiny of nations for generations.

Rabbi Wander draws a comparison between Election Day and Yom HaDin, the Jewish Day of Judgment associated with Rosh Hashanah. Although elections do not carry the same religious significance as these holy days, he suggests that their far-reaching consequences should move God’s people to earnest prayer.

From Geula Movement on Substack:

Think about it. On Rosh Hashanah, we acknowledge that Hashem determines the destiny of nations and individuals. Yet when Election Day approaches, how many of us behave as though the future rests entirely in the hands of political parties, campaign strategists, opinion polls, and the voters themselves? We invest enormous amounts of time, money, and emotional energy into political campaigns. We argue with friends and relatives, attend rallies, distribute campaign materials, and passionately advocate for our preferred candidates. We follow every development, scrutinize every poll, and anxiously await the results. But how much time do we invest in davening?

Shlomo HaMelech teaches us in Mishlei (21:1): לב מלך ביד ה׳ על כל אשר יחפץ יטנו — “The heart of a king is in the hand of Hashem; He directs it wherever He wishes.” This is not merely a comforting theological observation. It is a fundamental principle of Jewish faith. Even the most powerful rulers on earth are ultimately instruments within a Divine plan that transcends their own understanding, ambitions, and intentions.

Of course, we are obligated to perform our hishtadlut, our necessary human effort. We must take responsibility for our societies, participate in civic affairs, educate ourselves about the issues, and exercise whatever influence Hashem has placed within our reach. Emunah was never intended to become an excuse for passivity. But hishtadlut without bitachon is dangerously incomplete. We can campaign, organize, persuade, and vote. Yet the ultimate outcome, and certainly the consequences of that outcome, remain in the hands of the Ribbono Shel Olam.

Rabbi Wander’s message offers a timely reminder for American intercessors as well. Political engagement is important, but it cannot replace spiritual engagement. We may cast our votes, contact our representatives, and advocate for biblical values, but ultimately, the future of our nation rests in God’s hands. IFA knows this, which is why we’ve been encouraging intercessors to pray for elections for decades now.

This truth is especially important during an election season when political disagreements can become divisive and emotions run high. It is easy to become so invested in a particular candidate or outcome that we forget the One who holds authority over every earthly ruler. As Proverbs 21:1 reminds us, the king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord.

The rabbi also raises an important question: Should we pray simply for our preferred candidates to win, or should we ask God to give our nations the leaders they truly need? We cannot foresee every crisis, conflict, or opportunity that future leaders will encounter. But God sees the entire picture, and His wisdom far exceeds our own.

For Israel, these decisions carry enormous consequences for national security, the Jewish people, and the nation’s future. For the United States, the upcoming elections will likewise help determine the direction of the country. In both nations, the need for righteous leadership and divine guidance is undeniable.

As intercessors, we have a responsibility that extends beyond Election Day. 1 Timothy 2:1–2 calls us to pray for kings and all those in authority. That command does not depend on which party holds power or whether we agree with the decisions of our elected officials. Our responsibility is to continue seeking God’s wisdom, protection, and intervention.

Let’s pray that the people of Israel and the United States would recognize their dependence on God as they approach the ballot box. Pray for righteous leaders who will pursue justice, protect their people, and govern with wisdom. And let’s ask the Lord to remind us that while elections may determine who holds political office, He alone holds the future of nations in His hands.

How are you praying for the upcoming elections in Israel and the United States? Share your prayers and scriptures in the comments below.

(Excerpt from Geula Movement on Substack. Photo Credit: Element5 Digital on Unsplash)