“Sir, my concern is not whether God is on our side; my greatest concern is to be on God’s side, for God is always right.” Abraham Lincoln’s deep faith was reflected throughout his presidency. Even during the darkest hours of the Civil War, he turned to the Lord and listened to him.
As we approach our 250th year as a nation, we should pay more attention to the words of President Lincoln, the ‘gentle giant’ who held malice for none and exemplified moral character.
If he were to return for a visit, Abe would still recognize the love among American people, but he might be appalled by the division and disrespect that he would observe.
Is God on our side, or are we on his? Or do we even know the difference? I am always astounded by how many people applaud insults, spread viciousness, and yet believe they are on God’s side. Are they unknowingly driving people away from faith?
When we become overly attached to our beliefs, thinking they are the most important and correct, we can lose sight of what is truly right.
I often listen to partisan political conversations, and I find that most discussions are not grounded in facts. Instead, they are based on snippets from biased news outlets or social media. Even worse, the misconceptions shared in these conversations often turn into exaggerated lies, much like the story of a 13-pound bass that was actually only 3 pounds.
In Simon and Garfunkel’s song “The Boxer,” there is a famous line that should be posted as a reminder on every refrigerator door in America: “A man hears what he wants to hear and disregards the rest.”
Many of us have become too closely aligned with our political preferences, often overlooking the perspectives of others. We frequently emphasize our identities as Republicans or Democrats more than we remember that we are all God’s children.
How can those of us who have faith continue to demean others and cast judgment while holding a Bible in our hands? Are we truly exemplifying the teachings found within the Good Book?
When I reflect on all the men and women who have fought for our freedom in wars and conflicts over the last 250 years, it’s clear they fought on the side of righteousness.
Most of their names remain unknown except to the Almighty. The majority have no medals, plaques, or statues. They are not remembered for their allegiance to liberal or conservative causes, but rather for their commitment to all Americans.
Some Americans today wish to see certain communities fail, and their citizens simply disappear—not die, just vanish, as if that somehow sounds kinder. The hatred in America, driven by partisan politics, is not a form of patriotism; it is deeply offensive. We do not honor anyone, including God, through such words or actions.
As we enter a new year, if there’s one thing we could change in America, I hope it would be to seek common ground wherever possible. We should promote civility in all aspects of life and stop disregarding differing perspectives. If we only listen to what we want to hear, we learn nothing. Instead, we become entrenched in our stubborn and destructive ways.
Many Southerners were taught as children, “if you can’t say something nice, then don’t say anything at all.” This doesn’t mean you have to agree with everyone, but it does encourage speaking respectfully and being willing to listen. Our character is shaped by kindness and compassion.
My grandfather had a temper. Although I never witnessed it myself, I was told that he would lose his cool whenever he saw someone being treated unfairly or unkindly. Knowing his character, I understand why. He was a devout man with strong moral principles who constantly aimed to be on God’s side, believing that God was always right. I would bet anything that Granddaddy is now by the Lord, whom he faithfully obeyed.
We must all look beyond our current experience and reflect on the past. We turn to the example of Abraham Lincoln, whose faithful obedience, wisdom, and leadership serve as a guide. By looking to those who lived in alignment with holy principles, we learn valuable lessons. Most true wisdom cannot be taught through education, wealth, or power; it arises from understanding and following a higher, holier path.
We can never forget those who, like my grandfather and President Lincoln, stood up for the oppressed, the mistreated, and never threw stones. They fought to protect others, much like the soldiers, and stood firm against evil, just as their leader, God, who is always just.
How do we disregard that?
Let’s welcome 2026 with a vision that when people hear our name, America, they know we firmly stand on God’s side.
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Lynn Walker Gendusa began her writing career as a columnist for the LaGrange News. Today, her essays are featured regularly throughout Georgia and Tennessee. Her work also appears in Guidepost, USA Today, The Atlanta Journal, MSN.com, among others. Lynn has authored two books; the latest, “Southern Comfort,” was published in 2022. She can be reached at www.lynngendusa.com. For more of her inspirational stories, click here.
