Christian business owner prays over Trump, sees hurricane as catalyst for community healing

October 23, 2024

A North Carolina business owner who prayed over former president Donald Trump during his press conference on Monday says, God used the disaster following Hurricane Helene to unite the community.

The Christian Post reports that Mike Stewart, who owns a construction business in western N.C., said he believes God gave him an opportunity to invoke wisdom and blessings on Trump as the presidential race draws to a conclusion.

Stewart, whose business lost about 70 of its utility structures in the flooding last month, said, “It was amazing. I didn’t expect any opportunity to do that. I didn’t even expect we’d have an opportunity for him to be here. So, to me, it was ordained. I got up early this morning and prayed, and knew I’d have a chance to speak and maybe an opportunity to pray, and they approved it.”

According to the Christian Post, Trump visited the devastated area of Swannanoa, N.C. on Monday, criticizing the federal disaster response and praising the resilience of the residents of the area.

Following his remarks, Trump invited a handful of people to say a few words, including Stewart who spoke directly to the former president, praising his “indomitable spirit” and calling Trump a “warrior.”

Following Trump’s departure, Stewart stated that he believes the nation’s current political battles have put things into stark relief, saying, “It’s a battle between good and evil, that’s how I see it. I don’t like to label people, but we all know that there are forces that move through people and through groups.”

The business owner noted that the storm’s destruction of the community has brought local Christians together in its wake and united them in purpose to help one another.

Stewart, who is a former pastor, remains adamant that “God can show himself strong in the midst of darkness.”

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