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| Vol. 14 No. 4 April 2012 | Page 3 |
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| Vol. 14 No. 4 April 2012 | Page 3 |
Rodney Nulph, Associate Editor
God, through the inspired pen of the wise man, affirmed, “Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:34). This inspired statement haunts those of us who are so blessed to live in America. America is certainly a great nation! Many men and women have valiantly given their lives to make America what she is today. However, sadly, some have come “in unawares” and with sinful actions are bringing reproach to this great land. God through the prophet Isaiah warned, “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!” (Isaiah 5:20). Although this prophecy was not given to describe America in context, sorrowfully, it describes America of 2012 perfectly!
Firstly, America has exploited the poor and called it the lottery! “A California study showed that 40% of lottery players are unemployed. In Maryland, the poorest 1/3 of the population buys 60% of the daily numbers tickets. On the national average, lottery gamblers with household incomes under $10,000 dollars bet nearly 3 times as much on the lottery as those with incomes over $50,000” (https://www.saneok.org/files/Facts&Stats/LottoFacts.pdf). The value of hard work and perseverance, what this country was founded upon, is often lost to a “get rich quick” society! The Bible still says, “Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good…” (Ephesians 4:28 emphasis added). America was founded on godly principles, which advocate and encourage hard work (1 Thessalonians 4:11; 2 Thessalonians 3:8; et al).
Secondly, America has excused the killing of unborn babies and has called it choice! Some 54,559,615 abortions have occurred in America since 1973! (https://www.mccl.org/page.aspx?pid=400). While these precious little souls are murdered, many pious people sit idly by without a word! I am reminded of the words of Almighty God to Ezekiel, “Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me” (Ezekiel 3:17 emphasis added). Christians are certainly these “watchman” today. How loudly are we warning? America needs to hear our voice “loud and clear” that abortion is murder and sinful beyond degree (Exodus 21:22-27; Psalm 139:13-16; Ecclesiastes 11:3-5; Romans 1:31). “…A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid” (Matthew 5:14)!
Thirdly, America has encouraged homosexuality and has called it tolerance! “Same sex marriages” are currently permitted in Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, Washington D.C., Iowa, Washington (cf. https://statesthatallowgaymarriage.com/), while several other states allow “civil unions and domestic partnerships.” How terrible! How sinful! We have completely thrown God’s marriage law out to sea (Genesis 1:27; 5:2; Matthew 19:4; et al). God despises homosexuality (Genesis 19:1-11; Leviticus 18:22; 20:13; Romans 1:27; 1 Corinthians 6:9)!
Sadly, Dear Reader, America’s spiral downward began when we allowed sin to overtake our nation. Sin will never help us, exalt us or make us better in any way! It will always bring us down. It is high time that we diligently pray, preach and vote this sinful nation back to one that deems righteousness as a good thing. “By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted: but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked” (Proverbs 11:11). God help us!
There Is a Change in My
Life Since You Came Along!
Mark N. Posey
The biblical definition of “repentance” is “to change one’s mind.” The Bible also tells us that true repentance will result in a change of actions (Luke 3:8-14; Acts 3:19; cf. Acts 26:20). The full biblical definition of “repentance” is a change of mind that results in a change of action. In terms of the kingdom, it involves several things.
A Change in One’s Allegiance. Kingdom citizens submit their own wills to the will of the King (cf. Matthew 6:10; Romans 6:12-18; Matthew 6:24; 7:21). The King deserves our loyalty, obedience, honor and praise.
A Change in One’s Expectations. If all one lives for is today, tomorrow will grow very unappealing. If there is no hope for the future, there is no power for today (cf. Acts 1:9-11; John 14:1-6; 2 Thessalonians 1:7-9). The King deserves our anticipation.
A Change in One’s Values. Our culture values success, appearance, image, wealth and independence. The values of kingdom citizens adopt the King’s values and make decisions and choices that reflect His values. The King deserves our cooperation.
A Change in One’s Priorities. Priorities reflect personal allegiance, expectations and values. It also determines how I will spend my time and money. Kingdom citizens prioritize their time and money to benefit the King and His kingdom (cf. Matthew 6:24-34, especially vs. 33). Unless the King occupies first place in our lives, He occupies no place. The King deserves our full attention.
A Change in One’s Long Mission. Those with no mission in life are aimless and unproductive. James calls them, “double minded.” The King wants His followers to be servants (cf. John 13:15; Matthew 20:27-28; 25:21). Kingdom citizens humble themselves to serve those in the Kingdom.
Can you say, “There’s a change in my life since the King came along?” Repentance will turn your life around like nothing else will.