v. 34 Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is a reproach to any people.

Proverbs 14:34

When we consider the things that are occurring in our country, we conclude that we are living in difficult and distressing times. I know that every generation looked at the things that were presently occurring and compared them to the things of the past and determined that they were living in difficult and distressing times. However, the anger, rage, disrespect, lack of morals and values, lack of common sense, and other principles that were held as standards seem to surpass anything that we have ever seen. It is so discouraging when we consider that truth is no longer valued. It is disappointing that people in key political positions can look you directly in the face and lie – knowing that they know that you know that they are lying.

Paul shares in 2 Timothy 3:1-5, “1 But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: 2 For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, 3 unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, 4 traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, 5 having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!”

In the midst of what we face, we cry out for someone to do something… We cry out for God to do something… I believe that God is about to do something. However, it is not what we imagine. I believe that our Country, County, City and Community is in need of revival. I believe that God is preparing us for revival in this city. I believe that God is preparing us for more than sustaining the rituals and routines that are anchored in traditional church activities. I believe that God is preparing us for life transforming – life liberating ministry in this city.

In preparation for the ministry that God is calling us to fulfill, first, it is important that we are involved in our church and minister. Things will never change in our Country, County, City and Community if we sit in the church building with our heads stuck in the sands of spiritual complacency Second, it is important that we are involved in the political process and vote. I have previously shared that God is a God of justice. Decisions made by those in positions of authority that go against children, seniors, the poor, the disadvantaged, etc., gets God’s attention. The Old Testament clearly teaches that God sides with this group. Therefore, when we vote for justice, we vote with God.

Consider these quotes that I have previously shared:
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">* Pastor Carlson Adams, “There is too much in my ministry I can explain. If I can explain it, God did not do it.”</p>
<p style="padding-left: 30px;">* Dr. Warren Wiersbe, “The church once lived on the dangerous but exciting edge of miracle; today the church has both feet planted firmly on the ground and doesn’t dare to venture out where the bushes are burning.”</p>
May we consider, individually and as a church how God desires to use us as salt and light to positively influence everyone, everywhere we are – for God’s glory.