“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)
As we look upon this nation’s history and contemplate its spiritual vibrancy – a question comes to mind: Has there ever been a time in the United States when we were more removed from following the Judeo/Christian values that are fore-fathers embraced? Are we still one nation under God?
One only must read the newspapers and view the listings of television programs to see that this country is morally and spiritually under attack. The pollution of our young people through a liberal educational system has never been greater. For some, the abandonment of traditional family values has led to chaos, confusion, and despair.
I’m typically not an alarmist or pessimist. I’ve spent thirty-seven years of my life devoted to looking at positive biblical solutions to the Satanic attacks on our culture. My focus has been on what we can do to help change our godless culture – one soul at a time.
While I will continue to believe that at some point our nation will renew its passion for seeking God, the signs of our times remind me of the warning the Apostle Paul shared about “End Times”. “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with them.” 2 Timothy 3:1-5 (NIV)
In 2 Chronicles 32:1-33:13 we see how God wants us to respond when we are attacked by godless individuals. Throughout their history, Israel and Judah faced threats from surrounding nations. The Assyrians were an especially dangerous threat. King Hezekiah witnessed the Lord’s protection against the Assyrian ideological invasion of Judah.
After preparing the necessary weapons to defend themselves, Hezekiah encouraged the Israelites by saying, “Be strong and courageous! Don’t be afraid or discouraged because of the King of Assyria or his mighty army, for there is a power far greater on our side! He may have a great army, but they are merely men. We have the Lord our God to help us and to fight our battles for us!” 2 Chron. 32:8
My friends, when the direction of our culture gets you down, remember the words of King Hezekiah – “Be strong and courageous!” Pray that God will bring forth more godly leaders to help lead our nation back on a path of righteousness and holiness.
The reality is that revival starts with you and me. Repentance and restoration begin in our homes. As Joshua reminded us, “But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.” Joshua 24:15 (NIV).
Personal Application
What signs do you see in our culture that frighten you?
How can you make a real difference at work, in your home, and within your church?
Is your pastor properly equipping and inspiring the men of your church to be more than spectators? If not, why not encourage him to contact Men’s Ministry Catalyst to see how we might be able to assist him in launching a vibrant and effective ministry to men? Visit us at mensministrycatalyst.org. Pass along this thought to others. Thank you.
Jim Grassi, D. Min.