Many of us are extremely concerned about the state and direction of the country in which we live. There are several reasons for this - and here is the primary one. We believe there is but one God who is "the same yesterday, today and forever" (Heb 13:8). The Bible does not have an Old Testament God ... and a New Testament God. Actually, this one God has graciously preserved His Old Testament activities "for our instruction" (1Cor 10:11) - so we might know what activity provokes His "visitation."

The Bible is filled with exceedingly valuable information on His activity with nations. He speaks of their formation, life-span - and demise. There is no country, or government construct, that will make it into the coming eternal state. But, in this present age, God still speaks to the nations - granting promises ... and issuing warnings. As believers, we know that warnings not heeded end with disaster. His most laconic statement: "The wicked will turn to Sheol (the grave, the nether world), as will all the nations who forget God" (Ps 9:17). Nations that reject the dominion of the living Creator will be aborted by Him. The "Old Testament" God is alive and well.

So, what can a Christian do for his/her country? Most Christians are not in great leadership positions, and even if they do occupy a position of influence, there are so many fields of human endeavor going on at the same time, one cannot plug all the holes that are springing through the dam. The entertainment field (and all arts) are pushing all limits, governments are rife with corruption, illegal drugs (with associated criminal activities) are rampant, medical experimentation is ignoring basic life ethics, business deceptions abound - etc., etc., etc. Present moral containment is like trying to herd cats. So, is the Christian powerless - even a victim - before this moral onslaught?

The Bigger Picture On Law, Morality and Politics

The Bible tells us we are in "the last hour" (1Jn 2:18). So, what will be the moral condition of the world in the last second of this last hour? Well, we already know. The end times will be like the days of Noah and like Sodom and Gomorrah. (See Gen 6-9 and 18,19 and Lk 17:26-30). God knows what He is talking about. Ultimately, we will not be able to stop this.

The Smaller Picture - Our Personal Circle

While "our citizenship is in heaven" (Phil 3:20), our life in our current society is a very real one. Our family is real - and so are our friends, co-workers and fellow countrymen. When the Israelites were exiled to Babylon, God told them to "seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf; for in its welfare you will have welfare" (Jer 29:7). There are two directives here. First, do things that will benefit that society. Second, pray for that society. Is it possible this same God gives us these same directives toward our own native country?

For the Christian, right here, right now ... you ... what can you do to benefit your country? Fortunately, God has given two primary outlets that call for 100% of your energy and will keep you fully, and productively, engaged in your society. These make a huge difference - and you can do these regardless of the situation around you. These are totally under your jurisdiction and control ... and will produce positive results. They are your personal behaviors (righteous living) and your prayers. These are only two things - but both are plurals.

Abraham's "Deal" ... And Living Righteously

Abraham knew God was preparing to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah. "Will You indeed sweep away the righteous with the wicked? ... Far be it from You ... that the wicked and righteous are treated alike!" (Gen 18:23,25). He "bartered" with God until "a deal" was struck. If God found ten righteous people in Sodom, the whole area would be spared. While our ultimate righteousness is that of Jesus Christ Himself (Jer 23:6), each of us can aggressively pursue personal righteousness in all endeavors - and be salt and light in our areas of influence - by thinking right, acting right and reacting right. I can purpose to be living righteously ... and so can you. It is highly likely this may stay His Hand - or at least move Him toward surgical strikes and not a wholesale crushing. We are talking about the same God here you know.

Praying ... Specifically for Leaders

"First of all then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made for ... kings and all who are in authority, in order that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior" (1Tim1-3). Can you do this? I can do this. This is totally under our control. And I am assured these prayers, offered in faith, will make an impact. This is labor God will use and honor. So what do I pray? Well, first I try not to think about that leader as he/she currently is - but what God can turn that one into. That really helps. Second, I ask God to open his/her eyes to the Judgment he/she is heading toward! Most leaders have no idea they must account for their governance when they stand before the King of all the Kings and Ruler of all the Rulers. I ask for God Himself to reveal this to them. If He does, positive things will follow - fabulously positive things.

All of us intuitively know (if not by experience) that the physical overthrow of any society construct is fraught with great danger. Longer term, the result may prove positive, but then again, it could turn into a greater tragedy - for us, and our descendants, and our fellow countrymen. Our goal is internal societal change that is viewed by God as positive change. From God's perspective, this is actually quite simple. The establishment of just civil law - from His value set - should be installed and fairly applied to all citizens.

"All Hands on Deck!"

If you are a Christian, and you think you are powerless in moving your country toward God's standards ... well, you are either in ignorance (but no longer), or you lack faith (which you can seek and grow in ) or you have been deceived. These are all easily remedied as we have a Creator who stands ready and willing to change you - and grant you unique spiritual direction. You are to be a weapon in His Hand "for the destruction of fortresses ... destroying speculations and every lofty thing raised up against the knowledge of God" (2Cor 10:4,5). We do this when we live, speak, and pray according to His design for our lives. You can do this. You can. So can I. Christian, ... get to it.

In 1977, Robin became a Christian. Since then he earned a BA in Bus. Admin (Milligan College '90) and M-Div (Emmanuel School of Relign '92). He addresses the Tithe and Offering in "No Tithe for the Christian." Other Free Christian Ebook (s) address abortion, death, love and more at freelygive-n.com! His work makes even the deepest thinkers - rethink!