Felicia Benamon
Getting America's spiritual moorings in order
By Felicia Benamon
"...if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." — 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
The United States sends missionaries and church groups overseas in evangelism, but at this present time, it is not far from the naked eye that it is indeed the US that needs spiritual guidance and help.
On the surface are examples: the Wall Street protests, where some think they are owed something instead of working for it and that capitalism, born out of hard work and determination is somehow bad philosophy. Capitalism is only corrupted when corrupt individuals muddy the system. But those protesting are no better.
Many levels of society in America are tainted and many wonder how America has gotten so far off the tracks or so far out to sea. We've lost our moorings — the ship needs to be righted. We have gone off track for so long that what seems right is actually very wrong and what is wrong is right. Many Christians in the US aren't able to discern the difference.
The US won't get on the right track with conservatives setting up organizations to counter the "counter-culture." These efforts are vain in man's efforts to fix the problem while leaving the Lord Jesus Christ out of the process.
It's not to say that there are not reputable organizations out there that deserve our money and attention, but it's only with the wisdom and guidance of the Lord that we are able to make the correct decision how involved to be and to which organization we make a commitment to.
To put us back on track, it starts with each of us with the realization that we are all flawed and need a Savior. We need to get to the point and say, "Here I am Lord Jesus, forgive me, help me, what do I need to change? I need your help. I want You in my life." It starts with the individual.
Many also tout the strength of the US Constitution. But that very document was born from God-fearing men, men who looked heavenward for guidance; men who drew strength from Almighty God... many of our founding fathers did so in every aspect of their lives. They made many sacrifices, but with Godspeed they accomplished many feats in the creation and building of this nation. What makes us different from them? Should we not follow their example and look to God as well?
The US Constitution is a strong foundational document for our nation, but even stronger is the Word of God itself, yet among many conservatives, I hear much more talk of returning America to its Constitutional roots.
The Holy Bible itself not only teaches, but lifts up...Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall (Psalm 55:22). When men and women of faith put the Bible and God first and foremost as their guide, righteous and Godly living comes forth...Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path (Psalm 119:105).
Acknowledging the Lordship of Jesus Christ over our lives is the first step in turning around our nation, even if it involves some repenting. Otherwise, America is at a standstill, and may even worse, slide into ever-increasing danger.
Why not allow wisdom from above to guide us? After all, God knows our past, present, future...He knows what's coming, He knows how to fix everything and with guidance, help us, if we humble ourselves instead of plunging ahead to try to fix the mess ourselves.
Seek God's face, put God first in everything.
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (Matthew 6:33)
© Felicia Benamon
"...if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." — 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
The United States sends missionaries and church groups overseas in evangelism, but at this present time, it is not far from the naked eye that it is indeed the US that needs spiritual guidance and help.
On the surface are examples: the Wall Street protests, where some think they are owed something instead of working for it and that capitalism, born out of hard work and determination is somehow bad philosophy. Capitalism is only corrupted when corrupt individuals muddy the system. But those protesting are no better.Many levels of society in America are tainted and many wonder how America has gotten so far off the tracks or so far out to sea. We've lost our moorings — the ship needs to be righted. We have gone off track for so long that what seems right is actually very wrong and what is wrong is right. Many Christians in the US aren't able to discern the difference.
The US won't get on the right track with conservatives setting up organizations to counter the "counter-culture." These efforts are vain in man's efforts to fix the problem while leaving the Lord Jesus Christ out of the process.
It's not to say that there are not reputable organizations out there that deserve our money and attention, but it's only with the wisdom and guidance of the Lord that we are able to make the correct decision how involved to be and to which organization we make a commitment to.
To put us back on track, it starts with each of us with the realization that we are all flawed and need a Savior. We need to get to the point and say, "Here I am Lord Jesus, forgive me, help me, what do I need to change? I need your help. I want You in my life." It starts with the individual.
Many also tout the strength of the US Constitution. But that very document was born from God-fearing men, men who looked heavenward for guidance; men who drew strength from Almighty God... many of our founding fathers did so in every aspect of their lives. They made many sacrifices, but with Godspeed they accomplished many feats in the creation and building of this nation. What makes us different from them? Should we not follow their example and look to God as well?
The US Constitution is a strong foundational document for our nation, but even stronger is the Word of God itself, yet among many conservatives, I hear much more talk of returning America to its Constitutional roots.
The Holy Bible itself not only teaches, but lifts up...Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall (Psalm 55:22). When men and women of faith put the Bible and God first and foremost as their guide, righteous and Godly living comes forth...Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path (Psalm 119:105).
Acknowledging the Lordship of Jesus Christ over our lives is the first step in turning around our nation, even if it involves some repenting. Otherwise, America is at a standstill, and may even worse, slide into ever-increasing danger.
Why not allow wisdom from above to guide us? After all, God knows our past, present, future...He knows what's coming, He knows how to fix everything and with guidance, help us, if we humble ourselves instead of plunging ahead to try to fix the mess ourselves.
Seek God's face, put God first in everything.
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (Matthew 6:33)
© Felicia Benamon
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