Loving America

Is it ok to love America? For many of us, this sounds like a silly question and yet, for many, it causes our thinking to pause and questions to arise. How about this one? Is it ok to kick back against the government? If either of these questions feels wrong to you, please know dear reader, that your mind has been infiltrated by the enemy.

Consider a few recurring issues that each generation has had to defend. First, our Freedom of Speech. Within our first right as American citizens is the right to say what we believe, and that no organization or individual should be able to hinder us from doing so. It does not say that we can express what we believe so long as it does not hurt someone’s feelings. It simply says that as an American, you and I are free to say what we believe no matter what others think or feel. Additionally, you and I, as citizens of the U.S. have the freedom to peaceably assemble and protest ANYTHING that we believe is not right or that presents a threat to our rights as citizens.

How about the right to bear arms? The Second Amendment has nothing to do with a hobby or hunting. Rather, the Bill of Rights guarantees that our country's citizens should always be able to protect themselves against any enemy, both foreign and domestic. Why was and is it so important to protect each individual citizen's right to own weapons that would be effective in war? The authors and signers of the Declaration of Independence had just concluded a bloody war against a tyrannical and overreaching government, paid for with the lives of their families, friends, and fellow countrymen. The price that was paid to become such a glorious and free nation was too great to lose and must be guarded by every U.S. citizen.

But what about Christians? What does the Bible say? Being a Christian in America is unique and must be understood from our unique position as a citizen. The Bible teaches that we are to be subject to our government so long as our government is a force for good, protecting and advancing what is righteous (Romans 13). As a Christian in America, you are expected to live by the rules of the governing documents of our country. Rules that express that you, as a citizen of this country, are responsible for those who are elected to seats of power. It says that since you live in a country that is of the people, by the people, and for the people, the government works for you, and you are responsible for leading the nation toward righteousness. A responsibility so great, that if you were to neglect to do so, you would be going against God’s will for you as an American. I pray that you have celebrated our independence in the most glorious way and that this month is one of peace and joy. I also pray that you are engaged in the community and that you fulfill the call of God upon your life to be wise and lead toward righteousness.