by Loulwa El Maalouf

I have become used to writing about Lebanon during times of misery and despair. But what about when the tide turns, when things begin to look hopeful and full of promise?

The past few months in Lebanon have felt almost surreal. After enduring a devastating war layered on top of deep, ongoing crises and prolonged suffering, we are now witnessing the emergence of new hope. Even in yet another season of darkness, it seems that God is redeeming a terrible situation and preparing Lebanon for a time of renewal and flourishing.

This is not to deny the many ongoing challenges, the continuing suffering of countless people, the regional turmoil, and the persistent injustices and corruption that plague our surroundings. Still, from where I stand, the past few months have made hope tangible. We have seen it, touched it, and lived it. What once felt like a distant dream—a new president for Lebanon, a new anti-corruption government—seems to be translated into reality. This is after more than two years of presidential vacancy in Lebanon, caused by power struggles and agendas aimed at reshaping the country’s identity.

While corruption and clientelism have long been deeply entrenched, we are now witnessing a shift. Several ministers are making regular field visits and publicly speaking out against corruption, an encouraging and unprecedented development. In a remarkable turn of events, the president himself is boldly calling for genuine national unity within an empowered and sovereign government, something for which many have prayed and hoped over decades.

The road ahead is very long, and change takes time. But finally, we dare to hope. This hope is even beginning to show in practical ways; for example, a surge in bookings across Lebanon suggests that this summer could be one of Lebanon’s most active tourist seasons in years.

Just a few months ago, Psalm 11 was very relatable:

In the Lord I take refuge.
How then can you say to me:
“Flee like a bird to your mountain.
² For look, the wicked bend their bows;
they set their arrows against the strings
to shoot from the shadows
at the upright in heart.
³ When the foundations are being destroyed,
what can the righteous do?”

⁴ The Lord is in his holy temple;
the Lord is on his heavenly throne.
He observes everyone on earth;
his eyes examine them.
⁵ The Lord examines the righteous,
but the wicked, those who love violence,
he hates with a passion.
⁶ On the wicked he will rain
fiery coals and burning sulfur;
a scorching wind will be their lot.

⁷ For the Lord is righteous,
he loves justice;
the upright will see his face.

It often feels easier to think about relying on God when we’re in circumstances like those described by Psalm 11, when the faithful have vanished, the foundations are being destroyed, and the wicked seem to prevail. In the face of persistent injustice and despair, calling on God and depending on Him becomes almost instinctive, especially when everything else has failed.

But what about now, in this new season that feels like an extended refreshing breeze after years under a scorching sun? How do we continue to fix our eyes on God and keep our trust in Him, rather than in political powers that appear promising but are only human after all?

One reminder comes from Ephesians: Whether our circumstances seem bleak or bright, we are in a spiritual battle. We must be clothed in the full armor of God, ready for whatever the coming days bring us. A second reminder is that God is the one seated on the throne. As Psalm 24 declares, He is the sovereign owner of all things, and He reigns in glory. The king’s heart, whether righteous or corrupt, is like a stream of water in God’s hand: He directs it wherever He pleases, as Proverbs 21:1 reminds us. I’ve grown used to reminding myself of Paul’s instruction to Timothy: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Timothy 2:1–2). When our leaders were corrupt, we needed that reminder. But perhaps now, when it’s easy and even exciting to pray for new and hopeful leaders in Lebanon, we need it even more. This is the time to double our prayers for God to protect, guide, and sustain those in authority.

At ABTS, we often speak of new opportunities for ministry in the middle of crises. But what about now? In recent years, the church in Lebanon has adapted in difficult circumstances, discovering new paths and opportunities for ministry. This season calls for yet another kind of adjustment; this is a time to go deeper in discipling and equipping the church to glorify God. But before that, a good place to begin is with loving our neighbors and even our enemies in practical ways, as Jesus taught us. This is the time to demonstrate that the Kingdom of God is real, alive, and open to all, even to those who were once corrupt. After all, Christ died for us all.

Lebanon is currently undergoing municipal elections. For years, municipalities have been the very ground where the cycle of corruption and clientelism took root. This was where services were exchanged for votes, and influence for loyalty. But perhaps now is the time for change, where citizens will raise their voices against corruption instead of contributing to it. And as congregations, may we find new ways to express Christ’s love to our communities, to our leaders, and to one another, starting within our municipalities. But most importantly, let us continue to fix our eyes on God and keep our trust in Him.

Loulwa serves as the Director of Partnerships at ABTS and practiced her voting rights in the most recent municipal elections in her village.