As we approach the 250th anniversary of the signing of the United States Declaration of Independence, the fight to preserve our constitutional republic and our freedom of religion continues.
President Ronald Reagan often said, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.” Those words remain relevant today.
Many Americans believe our First Amendment right to freedom of religion was challenged during the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, cannabis dispensaries, liquor stores and other businesses were allowed to remain open, while houses of worship across the nation were restricted or temporarily closed. To many believers, this felt like discrimination against the constitutional rights guaranteed to churches and people of faith.
As a result, many congregations struggled, and some churches never reopened. It was a difficult and painful chapter in our nation’s history.
One lesson from the pandemic was that it caused many Americans to take a closer look at what was happening in our schools, communities and government institutions. It sparked conversations about education, parental involvement and the values being taught to future generations.
The battle for the future of our constitutional republic continues, and as Christians, we are called to “fight the good fight of faith” as instructed in 1 Timothy 6:12.
The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 13:11 that it is time to awake out of sleep. He encouraged believers to cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light. COVID-19 was a dark season for our nation. We lost many precious lives during the pandemic, and the effects of that time continue to be felt today.
Isaiah 60:1-2 reminds us: “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee.” Even in times of darkness, God calls His people to stand and reflect His light.
In John 1:1-9, we read that Jesus Christ is the true Light of the world. Verse 5 declares, “And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not.”
Jesus also said in John 12:46, “I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness.”
Today, the Lord continues to call people out of darkness and into His marvelous light. The invitation remains open. Will you respond? Will you ask Jesus Christ to forgive your sins and place your faith in Him?
Jesus said in John 6:37, “All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.”
The Bible also tells us in Jude 1:3 to “earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.” We are living in challenging times, but believers are called to remain faithful.
Jesus warned in John 9:4, “The night cometh, when no man can work.” Yet He also promised in Matthew 24:13, “He that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.”
As we move forward, may we remain vigilant, faithful and committed to defending the freedoms we have been blessed to enjoy.
Remember to mark your calendars for Generations United Revival: Come Alive Virginia, Aug. 6-8 at the Southern Gap Outdoor Adventure Stage.
Featured speakers and guests include:
Thursday, Aug. 6: Joel Horn
Friday, Aug. 7: Steven and Lori Ward of The Living Room Program
Saturday, Aug. 8: JT Harmon, along with Jeremy and Amy Mickles
Many youth groups will also be ministering each evening.
Services begin nightly at 7 p.m.
Stay tuned to The Watchman for more information.
