What Is Essential to You?

 "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another - and all the more as you see The Day approaching." Hebrews 10: 24, 25

    When religious liberties are under fire in America, Liberty Counsel has been a Godsend. Led by Mat Staver, this organization has been in the business of defending these liberties for the past thirty years. Since the pandemic, they have been busier than ever, currently representing over 2,000 pastors in 44 of our "united" states. 

    Using the onset of the novel coronavirus, select states such as California, have been enforcing worship bans - even in the confines of one's own home! Did you know it is now illegal in California to have some friends over for prayer and praise? This is America we're talking about, not North Korea. Though the first amendment to our Constitution under the Bill of Rights established the foundation of our religious freedoms, some judges are choosing not to abide by this law of our land! When the government says church facilities may be used for secular purposes, such as voting or vaccinations, but NOT for worship, this is blatant, intolerable discrimination. It's not just about the virus anymore, folks.

    How can this be? For the government to deem what is essential, thereby allowing liquor stores and casinos to open but churches must remain closed, is the beginning of socialism. Historically, when these tyrannical governments come into play, one of the first steps is to eliminate and discredit those in opposition to their plan. The Christian Church is the fly in the ointment in this scenario because it stands for Truth, Freedom and Justice as God ordains them. So, incrementally, these nefarious powers convince the populace that they want the best for the majority, yet busy beneath the surface is a covert operation to deceive. Those with ears, let them hear: this is none other than Satan at work. 

    To whom shall the Christian in America submit? God has placed governing authorities over us, the road map for them being the constitution, but when tyrants step away from that article of authority, then we must not be backed into a corner by them. The church in America MUST stand up for our right to peacefully assemble. If liberty is lost, will it ever be regained?

    Is church essential to you? Jesus Christ thought so - enough to die for it. What is happening to our Christian brothers and sisters, not only in the United States but also around the world, affects us as the Body of Christ. Pray for those who are under fire. Consider supporting the Liberty Counsel, which is non-profit (LC.org). Get involved. Don't think it can't happen to you. "Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." (Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.) Jesus called us to be the salt and light in our world and He gave us a Spirit of power, love and self-discipline, not one of timidity (2 Timothy 1:7). Use it!

"Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you." Deuteronomy 32: 39-41