As Donald Trump prepares to be sworn in again as the 47th president of the United States, Pastor Robert Jeffress, a longtime friend and informal spiritual adviser to Trump, says he believes the country is being offered a divine second chance.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Jeffress — who leads First Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas — expressed deep gratitude for Trump’s re-election and said many people of faith see his return to the White House as more than political. “To many, this feels like God giving America another chance — maybe the last one — to turn back to our Judeo-Christian roots,” he said.
Jeffress said he and many evangelical Christians, conservative Catholics, and Jews felt “relief and gratitude to God” following Trump’s victory. He pointed to recent societal shifts — including the embrace of transgender ideology, weakened support for Israel, and radical environmental policies — as signs of a country that had lost its moral compass. “These are things that have confused people and caused people of faith to grieve,” he said.
But with Trump back in office, Jeffress said there is a renewed sense of hope and determination. “They’re going to be praying for him,” he said. “They believe he wants what’s best for the country we all love.”
Although Jeffress said he does not hold an official role in Trump’s administration, he described his relationship with the former president as a “cherished friendship” spanning a decade. “He’s likable, and he truly loves America,” Jeffress said. “No sane person would give up the kind of lifestyle he had unless they truly cared about this country.”
Jeffress acknowledged some viewers might question whether he would’ve said the same thing about President Biden. “In fact, I did,” he said, referring to an op-ed he wrote in 2020 urging Americans to pray for Biden. “The Bible doesn’t say we get to pick who we pray for. We pray for all leaders.”
Looking ahead, Jeffress said he believes Trump will surprise many with his focus on unity. “Not everyone will agree with his policies, but I believe they’ll see that his heart is in the right place.”
As wildfires rage in California and people face mounting challenges, Jeffress also offered spiritual encouragement. “In times of disaster, people ask, ‘Why is this happening?’ But maybe we should be asking, ‘Who is still in control?’” he said.
He recounted a personal story about driving blind through a storm in Texas, only to find guidance by following the taillights of a passing truck. “When we’re in life’s darkness, we need to fix our eyes on the unchanging truths of God: He is loving, sovereign, and powerful,” Jeffress said.
“If we hold onto that,” he added, “God will bring us safely to the other side.”
Jeffress is a Fox News contributor, the author of nearly 30 books, and hosts the daily radio program Pathway to Victory, which airs on more than 1,400 stations. His weekly TV broadcast reaches audiences in nearly 200 countries, including on Fox Nation.
