Say This
Recently a controversy erupted in our country as some NFL players began kneeling during the National Anthem as a way of protesting what they see as racial inequality in our country. These players see this as a peaceful protest, allowing them to exercise their First Amendment right of free speech. Others, including the President, have said that all Americans should stand to honor our flag, our anthem, and the brave men and women of the military who have sacrificed for the freedom we enjoy.
Ask This
How should Christians respond to matters that may not align with our beliefs?
Say This
Here are a few principles to keep in mind:
- God expects us to submit to authority (Read Romans 13:1). This verse reminds us that God is ultimately in control over those who govern us. Although it is certainly not illegal to kneel during the National Anthem, standing during the anthem is a long-standingtradition. It symbolizes our allegiance to our nation and our respect for those who have fought and died for our freedoms.
Ask This: What are some ways we submit to authority every day? Why is it important?
Watch This: Take a look at how Virginia Tech basketball coach, Buzz Williams, instilled this principle in his players in the video below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Qz58jMhDDA - We live in a sinful world (Read Romans 5:12). This verse explains that sin entered the world through one man (Adam), and spread like a virus to all of us. America is without question the most blessed country in the world. Although our nation is a place of unmatched freedom and opportunity, it is far from perfect. Because we live in a sinful world, awful things such as slavery are a part of our past, and the ugliness of racism is still a part of our present. As believers, we should not be dismissive or insensitive to the pain of others. Each of us has been impacted by the sin of this world.
- We should seek peace with others (Read Romans 12:18). While we can’t control what everyone else does or says, we can control our own words and actions. This verse reminds us that as believers, we should do everything in our power to avoid conflict and live peacefully with others.
Ask This: How can we be peaceful with those who make us angry or make bad choices? - We must pray for our nation (Read 2 Chronicles 7:14). Sometimes the circumstances of this world make things seem hopeless. God promises us in this verse that if we will humbly seek Him in prayer, and if we turn from our sinful ways, He can and will heal our land. When we don’t know what else do to, the greatest thing we can do is pray.
Ask This: What are some specific things we can pray on behalf of our nation?
Pray This
Dear God, thank You for allowing us to live in this great country. Although our nation is not perfect, we are grateful for the freedom we have to peaceably disagree with one another. Help our family to show the love and compassion of Christ to anyone who encounters us. In Jesus name, we pray. Amen.