Trouble in Paradise 

Psalms 3:12

Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.

Acts 17:23-30

…I found an altar with this inscription, “To the Unknown God”…Him I declare unto you. God that made the world…He is Lord…in Him we live, and move, and have our being…the times of this ignorance God winked at; but now commandeth all men everywhere to repent.”

I am proud to be an American. I love America. I am grateful for my American heritage, my Christian raising, and my innate optimism which fills me with the desire to hope the best of others. 

The recent rioting, debating, and acts of hate leave me saddened and disheartened at the state of my beloved America. When did right and wrong become debatable topics? While there are many political issues which understandably divide our nation, respect for others and support of our elected officials must prevail. 

I recall my daughter’s senior trip to Washington DC. I imagined what I might say if I happened to have the opportunity to meet President Obama. Quickly, I came to the conclusion that I would ask to pray for him. I even felt convicted for not praying for my president enough during his term.

I pray for our future. I believe the Lord’s “winking” days are over. God’s eyes are wide opened, and He expects repentance from me, from you, and from everyone. Ignorance is no excuse.

Deuteronomy 30:19 says, “I have set before you life and death…choose life….” The answer is clear. God’s Word provides the blue print necessary for an overcoming, abundant life. Stand for life, stand for truth, and stand for what God commands. 

There is an old gospel song which says, “of all the gods men worship, there’s a difference you can tell. He’s the only one who ever gave His son. He’s the God that cannot fail.” Jesus makes the difference folks! The world revolves in confusion, and America, if she is to remain a place of freedom and hope, cannot forsake the Lord. Jesus makes the difference in America, too. To share the truth of Jesus to those who don’t know Him continues to be the mandate for Christians everywhere. 

Jesus said, “in this world you shall have tribulations: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) I encourage myself today even in the midst of chaos because I know the truth. The troubles will come, but Jesus has already overcome. Join me today, take a stand for truth, and share the good news of Jesus with a troubled world.