November 2, 2005

 

For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who suppress the truth in unrighteousness, because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse, because, although they knew God, they did not glorify Him as God, nor were thankful, but became futile in their thoughts, and their foolish hearts were darkened.

--Romans 1:18-21

 

C.S. Lewis, the great Christian writer, was first an agnostic before he came to Christ. He then became one of the most prolific writers and apologists for the cause of Christ. At one time, having observed the decline and demise of the Christian culture in his own country (Europe), C.S. Lewis said, “Indeed, [the Christianization of Europe] is not unique or irreversible. We have known a pre-Christian era in Europe, we have known a Christian era in Europe, and now we know a post-Christian era in Europe.”

 

There was a time when Europe was totally pagan. But then a wave of missionaries and evangelists came to Europe with the Gospel of Christ and Europe culturally became a Christian continent. But as the nation progressed—or digressed rather (determined by your perspective)—it moved into secularism. That is, a society without God.

 

Certainly, what took place in Europe is now taking place in America. What began as a Christian nation, founded upon Judeo-Christian principles, has now become a secular society. And it is increasingly difficult for us as believers in Jesus to live a black and white life in a gray world.

 

As believers, we are to live with conviction—a life of biblical principles and values in our world where the lines are all jumbled together. We must see the world as it is and what we are in it. In Matthew 10:16 Jesus said, “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.”

 

I challenge you to live a holy lifestyle and to abandon yourself every day to walk with Christ. I believe God is already judging America for our sins. And eventually, He is going to give us over to our destructive lifestyles. This is why it is so important for Christians to live pure unto Him. Ask the Lord to strengthen you and empower you to live blameless before those you come in contact with and for His glory.

 

IN A SOCIETY THAT IS BECOMING INCREASINGLY VOID OF MORALITY, DETERMINE TO BE THE LIGHT THAT SHINES THROUGH THE DARKNESS.