Happy Birthday America!!! It is our 245th Independence Day. Today we find ourselves at a crossroads. We are divided politically, socially, and morally. What direction is this country going to take?
I am going to leave it to the talking heads and pundits to discuss politically and socially.
What does God’s word say about freedom? I promise you it is not what you see and hear in today’s media.
At the core of American, western culture is a “me first” attitude. People are out to get theirs and often at the expense of others. The media glorifies and worships these champions of success.
As you read these verses, think about the cultural stance on the following issues.
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Sexual immorality: The culture says, “If it feels good, do it!”… among many other things.
1 Corinthians 6:12-13 “All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything. “Food is meant for the stomach and the stomach for food” and God will destroy both one and the other. The body is not meant for sexual immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.
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Neighbors: Do we even know our neighbors any more? God’s word is calling us to put the needs of others above our needs.
1 Corinthians 10:23-24 “All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up. Let no one seek his own good, but the good of his neighbor.
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Do Good and Respect Authority
1 Peter 2:16-17 Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God. Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.
Unfortunately, those who are acting out in violence against authority and others garner a significant portion of attention in the news. Yes, they are free to act this way. But this does not mean they are free from the consequences of their actions. Who are they serving? Are they honorable? Their actions are hardly loving.
There will be plenty of who disagree with what God has to say. Take it up with Him. He will listen. He is a big boy, He can handle it.
God’s word calls for a society where we look after others as a priority instead of ourselves. Respect, serve, love others… even the one’s we disagree with.
Do not underestimate the power of good…
1 Peter 2:15 For this is the will of God, that by doing good you should put to silence the ignorance of foolish people.
