This month the United States of America will celebrate July 4th in remembrance of the ratification of our Declaration of Independence. Both in the preamble and the epilogue they acknowledge the Creator God as the both the author and protector of freedom. It was their reliance upon God that gave them the courage to take their stand and declare truth in the face of opposition and possible death.
As Christians we know our freedom is in Christ, not the government. Now is our time to courageously declare the freedom we have in Christ in the face of all opposition and persecution. We need not debate with the promoters of evil in our culture. Their arguments are illogical and unsound. In many ways to engage them in debate gives credibility to their position. As the saying goes, “Truth needs no defense”, and I believe a lie requires constant defense.
In the First Century the Apostle Peter, encouraged the followers of Christ in his day who like us were living in a world seemingly controlled by ungodly men bent on persecuting Christ’s followers.
I Peter 3:8-11
“Finally, all of you be like-minded, sympathetic, having affection for God’s family, tenderhearted, humble-minded. Do not repay evil for evil, or insult for insult, but on the contrary, give a blessing, for to this you were called, so that you inherit a blessing. For whoever wants to love life and see good days must keep his tongue from evil and his lips from deceitful speech, and he must turn away from evil and do good. He must seek peace and diligently pursue it.
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are open to their prayers, but the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.
And who will harm you if you are zealous for what is good? But even if you should suffer for doing what is right, you are blessed; and do not be afraid of them, nor be troubled, but in your hearts set the Lord Christ apart as holy. Always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you, yet do it with meekness and respect, having a good conscience, so that in a case when you are spoken against, those who revile your good way of life in Christ will be put to shame.”
Peter’s message is clear. Take care of one another in the family of God. Don’t attempt to “get back” at the evil ones (like blasting them on Facebook). Simply turn away from them and do good. Seek to live peaceably with everyone because God is the one keeping score! And … if we suffer for doing the right thing, God’s blessing remains, there is no need to fear. Instead, ALWAYS be ready to give an answer to those who are seeking.
What a simple message for us to embrace in these confusing times. Remember the light shines brightest on the darkest nights. Now is the perfect time to shine the light of truth in our dark culture. Not with bitterness or rage, but with hope for those who are lost to come to the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved! Our battle cry is not for political freedom but ETERNAL freedom from death through Christ!
Let’s do our part to remain ready to speak the truth of Christ’s salvation to all who are seeking and let those who oppose us answer to God.
Stay Free In Christ,
