Reba McEntire and her fans find faith during hard times with singer's new gospel album

(Cameron Powell)

Reba McEntire's decision to release her first-ever gospel record could not have come at a better time for the country legend or her fans.

The Country Music Hall of Fame member is releasing "Sing it Now: Songs of Faith & Hope" on Friday, a double album of contemporary and classic gospel tunes. The singer said it was the right time for her to focus on her faith after splitting from husband of 26-year Narvel Blackstock in 2015.

"Because I needed it myself, going through two and half years of changes in my life," McEntire said. "And who better to lean on than God? And that's who I needed to be listening to. And I needed that faith, that faith strengthened, that hope."

McEntire said her fans have also found solace in the album's first single "Back To God" originally recorded by country singer Randy Houser in 2008. Without getting into specifics, the singer touched upon today's political climate under President Donald Trump.

"I'm hearing from people...about how [this song] has touched their heart and about how much we need this song at this time with all the trouble in the United States," the "Fancy" singer told Fox News. "With all the differences of opinions let's just give it back to God. It just seems to be very timely."

Reba told us she's paid attention to "all of the political things going on" but as an entertainer, she refrains from preaching her beliefs onto others.

"I'm an entertainer and I don't get into politics. I never have," she said. "It's like my faith. I teach by example so I don't preach to people. I just tell them how great my... relationship is with the Lord."

The 61-year-old said she did pray to God during the election to "put the right person" into office.

"I pray for God's way and not my way. I know that God's got the right path and the right plan.

Faith & Fame is a regular column exploring how a strong belief system helps some performers navigate the pitfalls of the entertainment industry.

Follow Sasha Savitsky on Twitter @SashaFB.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.