Our Christian Duty

As our country faces unprecedented times, it calls  upon us all to take a closer look at life. The future is uncertain and basic values seem to be fading into   obscurity. Principles that were once taught in schools have been replaced with modern ideology, painting the dependence our founding fathers had in God as a mere fairy tale. The unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness are gradually being washed away with new legislation.

Is this the opportunity to let your voice be heard in some march or display of protest? Or is it more appropriate to sit idly by and watch the downfall? Neither option is the answer.

Consider Ephesians 6:10-13 “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.”

Today is the day to stand up for what you know is right, holding to godly morals and clinging to the Lord. Live in such a way that others have no question what you believe. “If we don’t stand for something, we’ll fall for anything.” – Irene Dunne on America’s Town Meeting of the Air, May 1945

At times, it may be easier to go with the flow, but what can this approach accomplish? Having a “coexist” attitude only gives silent approval to things you may contradict. Do you agree with all the things that are considered the new “normal” in our     society? What does God think about the wickedness that is   being approved, even legislated? As Christians, we cannot put our approval upon these things. We must remain faithful to the principles we hold dear, no matter what the consequence may be.

In Daniel 3, the three Hebrew children knew they would face the fiery furnace if they did not bow down to the golden idol. This did not change their determination to be true to God, whom they faithfully served. They held their ground and were marvelously delivered unharmed!

Follow the example of these men and have the same determination to be faithful. Standing up for righteousness is not a loud or showy display. It is having confidence in the One you serve. Yes, stay loyal to your country, but more importantly, keep your  allegiance to God!

“Resistance to tyranny becomes the Christian and social duty of each individual. Continue steadfast and, with a proper sense of your dependence on God, nobly defend those rights which heaven gave, and no man ought to take from us.”  – John Hancock

~  S. Shick