
This past week has really been a tough one and I know many feel the same way. We have watched some of our most honored principles and practices take a beating, we continue to see our Christianity under assault, and the media continues to report not the news, but instead try to create sensationalism, as in the Zimmerman trial, a sad tragedy of events.
So what should we Americans who claim Jesus Christ as our Savior do to try and influence and change things? Well, as the Proverb says, we must live our lives with integrity, getting our strength from He who made us in His image. And I know this isn't easy, for our society has in many ways turned morality and goodness upside down in a very short time. Lying and cheating is common as is lack of trust. But we, as modern day Apostles for Christ, are the ones who have to do something to turn it around and it must come from the heart, for anger and violence is both counterproductive and wrong and it also allows bad energy to overcome good.
Think of the cartoons when you were young with the good angel on one shoulder and the evil one on the other, constantly fighting for control over your actions. Which action did you choose and which one truly impacted your soul? I think the answer is really quite obvious when you are honest with yourself.
And those who persecute and ridicule you for your beliefs, what happens to them? Well, again as the Proverb tells us, their crookedness and treachery (evil) will ultimately destroy them. They might win temporary skirmishes against us, but in the end, the righteous will prevail.
During the upcoming week we celebrate the founding of the United States on the Fourth of July. Why not approach this great day of national pride with a commitment to return this great land to God, to live with honor and integrity and to never be afraid to speak out for what is good and true. Remember, the example we set is one of the best ways to show others what good living can do for them, too.
Dear Lord, As we approach a great American day, let us honor our nation by the way we live our lives, devoted to Thee and always honoring Thy laws. Help us to be a positive influence on those around us, showing in our life the joy of good living. And help us to fight the temptation to condemn others, for we are required by Thee to love them as brothers and sisters, we just don't love the actions that they take.
Keep our hearts open, pure and loving, and make us always mindful that all that we have, and all that we can do, is only so through Thy love. May Thy love infect the hearts of all mankind and make this world a better place, one which hears Thy voice, responds to Thy love, and accepts Thy grace. We ask in Jesus' name, Amen
Have a great Sunday, my Christian brothers and sisters, worship, have a nice family day, and always honor Him. God bless and keep America.