If the foundations are broken, what can the righteous do? (Ps. 11:3, MEV)
It’s been said that the only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing. The encroaching evil in our land is almost breathtaking. Heart-stopping. As it pours into every nook and cranny of our culture, it is also going to be life-altering and life-shattering.
As I’ve read reports of shootings in Louisiana and Minnesota … as I’ve shared the agony of a nation that is reeling from the cold-blooded, deliberate, pre-planned murder of police officers … as I’ve watched the eruption of anarchy in the streets … as I’ve wept with grief almost deeper than words but expressed by a silent scream in my heart … I’ve asked the Lord: What are we to do? Is there anything ordinary, good people can do? As I waited in prayer, four things came to my mind:
First, we can pray. Paul challenges us in Ephesians 6:18 (NIV): With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying… It’s time for you and me to establish a set-aside time of consistent, daily prayer.
Secondly, we need to pick up the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God, according to Ephesians 6:17 (MEV). This is a time to daily, consistently spend time in God’s Word, strengthening the foundation of our faith as we listen to what God has to say. But don’t just read it. Apply it. Obey it. Live it out.
Thirdly, 2 Timothy 2:22-24 instructs us: pursue righteousness… pursue the right thing, not necessarily the popular or the politically correct thing. Stand up for justice, truth, kindness and love…by our own example.
Fourthly, proclaim Jesus. He explains in John 10:10: The thief does not come, except to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. Be ready at a moment’s notice to share the Gospel and give a reason for the hope that is within you.
Please. Don’t do nothing. Do something! Pray. Pick up your sword. Pursue righteousness. And proclaim Jesus until He comes.
Anne Graham Lotz, founder of AnGeL ministries, has proclaimed God’s Word worldwide for more than 30 years. Her newest book, Wounded by God’s People, is available at AnneGrahamLotz.com
