America: Founded on Faith, Floundering in Folly
by James Robison
Week of October 24, 2004
As our country prepares to go to the voting booth, it is interesting to note the top election issues, according to the polls. In years past, the so-called "moral" issues could be found in the top five. It seems that a "moral" has always ranked high in the minds of voters. But this year, the top issues are, in varying order, the war in Iraq, the economy, healthcare, homeland security, and education. Gay marriage, abortion, and the character of the candidates have all been relegated to a lesser status.
As the influence of the church has declined, it appears that it is directly affecting the way we vote. I believe that any withdrawal syndrome that may be present among Christians is mistaken and dangerous. By not being directly involved in government, we abandon the field of government and social standards to others.
As a result, a strange phenomenon has developed in America. Decent citizens no longer are inspired by the magnificent ideals and principles that have made America the greatest nation in history. But small, special interest groups are rabidly inspired by their self-serving ideologies.
Decent citizens don't bother to inform themselves on the issues that affect their lives in the future of their children. Yet radical groups become not only informed, but also excited and active on issues that concern them. Christians feel tongue-tied while a minority of activists encroach and trample on our beliefs and lifestyle.
Far too many good, hard-working people find other things to do on election day, while those who despise the American system go to the polls and elect people to run the country in a way contrary to the core values of most Americans. Some still view grass roots party politics -- especially at the local and state level -- as "dirty business." But the truth is that in a free country, politics can only become a "dirty business" if the "clean" people sit back in apathy and allow unprincipled people to take over. We imagine ourselves to be a part of the "silent majority," but a silent majority is a servant majority, blindly catering to the interests of the militant minorities to whom it has abdicated the responsibilities of government.
So who should we blame for the conditions that we deplore? Abraham Lincoln said, "If destruction be our lot, we ourselves must be its author and its finisher. As a nation of free men, we must live through all time or die by suicide."
The apathy of Christians and others holding to traditional values amounts to political and social suicide! For America to continue as a great nation, I am convinced that Christians and morally upright citizens must do three things.
First, we must be inspired. America was founded on great, Godly principles. We should be inspired by the dedication and personal sacrifice of those who won our freedom and those who continue to fight in order to preserve it. We owe God a debt of gratitude for being allowed to live in such a wonderful country.
Second, we must be informed. Good people must invest time and energy to promote good candidates and causes. If we back down from this challenge, we will always be at a disadvantage to radicals in the political arena.
Third, we must get involved. We live in a dangerous world. The decisions that politicians make today will shape the world we live in tomorrow. If America is to remain great, those who love her values and ideals must be involved. We must get into the thick of things and exert their influence for the principles on which America was built. Christians must understand the issues, get to know the candidates, and vote. And through it all, we must pray.
Four years ago, we learned the power of a person's vote. You can make a difference this year, so get on your knees and asked God for his wisdom, then stand up for what is right.
This Week
Vote early or prepare in advance to vote on November 2. Find out who is running in your state and local area, and learn about their positions on issues important to you.
Prayer
"Lord, let your will be done in this year's elections. Guide me as I vote and let your Spirit move on all of those in elected office."
