“Three Areas Under Five”

By Bill Brandstatter

      As I listen to the news, I notice three areas that are under fire today. These three areas used to be pretty clear. They used to be better than today. They were at one time plain for all to see. Not anymore.
      The first is authority. There is a battle going on between federal and state rights. This is seen in the gun issue and gay rights. The Supreme Court is handling cases now that wouldn’t have been heard years ago.
      What is right or wrong depends on the individual today. For a person to declare there is one exclusive way is considered to be judgmental; yet there is a way that is right that can never be wrong. God’s way is always the best way. Yet often man considers God to be unfair. Jesus said all authority was given to Him, “in heaven and on earth.” (Matt. 28:18)
      The second is attitude. It is obvious that many attitudes are changing. The attitude of many today is that of a victim. Others believe the government owes them something. Personal responsibility and commitment are becoming ancient words from another time. The Bible tells us we are responsible for our behavior. Paul stated, “Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.” (Gal. 6:7) Long before this Ezekiel stated, “The soul who sins will die.” (Ez. 18:20 NKJV) We bear the responsibility for our own actions. Good and bad choices are ours to make. God wants us to make the good choices. (Deut. 30:15)
      The third is assurance. With job losses, home foreclosures, businesses closing, pensions threatened, there is little or no assurance today. What once was a sure thing is now in question. We need assurance in our troubled times. God is always the same. He can give assurances that man cannot. He carries out all that He says. What God says will happen. Paul stated, “All the promises of God in Him are Yes; therefore through Him is our Amen, to the glory of God through us.” (2 Cor. 1:20) Christians can be assured that God will answer prayer. (1 Cor. 5:14) The assurance of a better world beyond this one can take Christians to new heights. (2 Cor.5:1-8) Thank God for His promise of eternal life to the faithful. Jesus promises, “He that believes and is baptized shall be saved.” (Mark 16:16) Salvation through His blood is possible when we obey Him. (Heb. 5:8, 9) A crown of life awaits the faithful. (Rev. 2:10) Do you have that assurance?

– Bill Brandstatter preaches for the Marion Church of Christ in Marion, IL. He may be contacted through the congregation's website: http://marionchurchofchrist.com/