In the tempestuous realm of American politics, where ideologies clash and voices rise in cacophonous debate, a faction of fervent religious supporters harbor an unyielding conviction: former President Donald Trump is chosen by God.

Though Christians may call the integration of faith into their politics plain old living out biblical convictions, scholars don’t see it the same way.

Love, civility, tolerance and understanding are out the window this election season, because race-baiting is a winning political strategy in an ugly game where everybody loses. America is on the brink of implosion as party lines have become battle lines and politicians’ headline-grabbing rhetoric deepens the racial, social and ideological divide in our nation.