As a Christian in the United States, it’s hard not to see the blending of cross and flag. Bible verses are being quoted at political rallies and social media, not to call people to repentance or compassion, but to stir allegiance to a cause and country. Christian symbols are showing up next to weapons and campaign slogans. The message is subtle but clear: God is on our side, and to be a good Christian is to defend this nation.

But the Psalms tell a different story.

As the director of children’s ministry at Trinity Mennonite Church, and guided by the Shine Curriculum, I’ve been studying the Psalms with our elementary students. As we dove deeply into Psalms 23, 91, 121 and 146, I was reminded that our hope has never rested in earthly power. These ancient songs don’t teach us how to win a culture war, but rather teach us how to be human before God: how to follow, trust and hope in a kingdom not made by human hands.

In a time when Christian nationalism is wrapping itself in the language of faith, these Psalms call us back to the Shepherd. Not to power, but to presence. Not to fear, but to faithfulness.

Here are five reflections shaped by these Psalms to remind us where our true allegiance lies.

1. Psalm 23: “The Lord is my shepherd,” not the state or the flag

In a country where political movements claim to protect and provide for the people, Psalm 23 reminds us that only God can truly shepherd us. Christian nationalism conflates the shepherding role of God with the power of the nation-state. But the state is not our refuge, and patriotism is not a substitute for Christ-centered discipleship.

Reader Reflection: To whom am I looking for security: Christ or my country?

2. Psalm 91: “God will cover you with his feathers,” not weapons or war chants

“You will not fear the terror of the night…”

Psalm 91 is often misused as a promise of invincibility or even a license for domination. However, it may be better read as finding one’s comfort in God’s sheltering presence in times of fear.  Christian nationalism promises safety through strength (military, cultural or political), but Psalm 91 points to a God who shelters us in vulnerability.

Reader Reflection: Is my understanding of protection shaped more by empire than by the cross?

3. Psalm 121: “Where does my help come from?” – not from the halls of power

“My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.”

If influenced more by headlines than scripture, it’s tempting to believe that salvation lies with the right party, the right court decision, the right platform. Psalm 121 calls us to lift our eyes higher. While civic engagement matters, idolizing political solutions betrays a deeper trust in human systems over divine guidance.

Reader Reflection: Do I treat my politics as a tool or a savior?

4. Psalm 146: “Do not put your trust in princes,” even the ones who quote scripture

“Happy are those whose help is the God of Jacob…”

Psalm 146 is a direct rebuke of putting ultimate trust in human rulers, especially those who cloak themselves in religious language. Christian nationalism thrives when we forget that God’s kingdom is not of this world. The Psalm calls us back to the God who defends the oppressed, not the powerful.

Reader Reflection: Am I discerning when leaders use faith to gain power?

5. A different way of witness: faithful presence, not culture war

Taken together, these four Psalms offer more than comfort: they offer clarity. In a world saturated with fear and partisan fire, these Psalms are not an escape; they are an anchor. Not in the victory of “our side,” but in the constancy of God’s justice, mercy and presence.

Christian nationalism insists that the mission of Christ can be advanced by force, fear or political dominance. But the Psalms (and the life of Jesus) tell a different story. They call us back to a witness shaped not by triumph, but by truth. Not by control, but by compassion. Not by ideology, but by love that crosses every border and breaks every sword.

Reader Reflection: May you resist the pull of a faith fused with nationalism and follow the Shepherd, take shelter in his wings, lift your eyes to his help and place your trust not in earthly “princes,” but in the Prince of Peace.