Standing For What Is Right
How many of you have said the words, “I am drawing the line right now”? Did you stick with it? I used these words with my children many times, but when it comes to Godly principles, there is no moving the line.
One night my husband and I were watching TV and the show applauded things directly opposed to scripture. We changed the channel, only to get involved in another program that caused us to be uncomfortable because of the language. Again we changed the station and the final blow came when a commercial made my mouth drop open and my stomach churn.
Never would I have thought these kinds of things would be on primetime when children were watching. Finally, after three times of changing stations, we gave up trying to watch anything new and tuned into a recorded show from the 80’s. We drew a line based upon our values. I always ask myself, if Jesus came into the room would I be embarrassed over my actions? I’m reminded that the Lord is always with us and He is aware of what we are thinking and doing.
I complain about these things, but I also ask myself: What I have done to stop them? I complained to friends and anyone else who would listen, but I now realize I didn’t do enough. Did I try to contact government leaders when abortion clinics were open? Did I do anything to get more wholesome shows on TV? The list goes on and on of things that I have been opposed to. I guess I thought someone else would handle the problem and my voice wasn’t that important. I am ashamed for allowing myself to think that way.
Politicians are now talking about leaving historical things out of school textbooks because it isn’t politically correct. These are not political things; these are historical things that shaped this nation. A year ago we had a school board election posing the right wing against the left wing. How did that happen? Aren’t school boards supposed to decide what is best for the children, not the political party? One group was so desperate to win they did illegal things. What does that demonstrate to our children?
I realize as believers we are becoming a minority in speaking out for what is right. There have been more changes in this country over the last several decades than ever before. I am aghast that parents want to be friends with their children instead of playing the role of a good parent. A child approaches the parent, saying they are not the sex they are born with, (even though physically they are), and the parent says, “Okay, be who you want to be!” This goes against the identity God instilled in that child. Another trend is parents buying liquor for underage teenagers and being called “cool parents” by leading their children down the wrong path. This happens in Christian and secular families. A couple lost their businesses by refusing to bake a wedding cake for a gay couple because of their Christian beliefs. In kindness, they explained why and recommended other bakeries. Yet that was not enough, they are sued. It’s now before the Supreme Court!
When I read in Scripture how the Canaanites defectively influenced the Israelites, I ask myself: Are we any different? Jesus said we are not of this world but living here temporarily. “If you were of the world, the world would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you” (John 15:19 NIV). So why do some believers stand back and remain silent? Fear of retribution? Fear of rocking the boat and being “cancelled”? Are pastors fearing to preach on what is right because they fear a loss in membership more than they fear God and thereby dismiss their responsibility to shepherd their flock?
We are living in a world full of lost people. Jesus tells us we are to be set apart, and we may lose relationships for adhering to what is right. He certainly “rocked the boat” when He was on earth. “For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ, not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for him” (Philippians 1:29 NIV).
I have been challenged. I am no longer sitting back hoping someone else will handle the problems. I voice my opinions in love on the things against God. George and I support and are a part of an organization helping to save babies and trying to make a difference in the mother’s life too. We also financially support an organization giving free representation to couples like the bakers, Aaron and Melissa Klein, who cannot afford the legal fees and others like them. I try to get in touch with TV stations when ads run that are inappropriate. I am honest and kind in my answers when asked about something that is scripturally wrong and opposes what the Lord expects of us. When I teach, I make sure my comments are backed up with scriptures. I cannot change the world on my own, but together we can make a difference.
Recently several well-known scholars have said we are in the Third Great Awakening. In every Great Awakening, Christians have faced turmoil, banned together in prayer, and stood up to make a difference. I challenge you in this new year of 2023 to join me. Let’s lock arms in this third Great Awakening for this country by drawing a line in the sand and standing strong for our beloved God. Depend on Him to lead and guide you to a higher path. You will get push-back, but I am convinced God will honor your efforts.
This country was founded on Christian principals and let’s keep it that way.
Let’s pray:
Lord, as a believer in You, I want to stand firm for Your principals and statutes. I want to be a beacon to a lost world, representing Your truth in kindness and firmness. I realize I need Your help and direction as to when and how to handle each situation. Show me how to join with other Christians in this fight against the enemy. Give me courage, wisdom, and discernment, and help me make a positive difference in this world as I seek to represent You. Amen.
