"God and Country"

I watch the news and see the clues,

About what God has said,

And no doubt, it’s all about,

Exactly what we’ve read.

The Scriptures tell of just how hell,

Will invade every sphere,

And if we sleep we cannot keep,

Our eyes on danger near.

Rise up to meet and promise keep,

To God and country sure,

The Kingdom first and always thirst,

For what will long endure.

Recognize what patriots prize,

The equality of all,

Let freedom ring and with it bring,

A heart to hear God’s call.

To humbly walk and boldly talk,

Of Christ who is the way,

To speak what’s true and ever do,

What wins on judgment day.

What competes though they repeat,

Their lies for all to hear,

They all will bow to Him somehow,

The saved need not have fear.

For Jesus’ name and for His fame,

We’ll live and sacrifice,

Through cruel hate God’s never late,

We’ll gladly pay the price.

And in the end His rule begins,

On His promise we rely,

We’ll mourn no more on heaven’s shore,

For all our tears are dry.

“For a time is coming when people will no longer listen to sound and wholesome teaching. They will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear. They will reject the truth and chase after myths. But you should keep a clear mind in every situation. Don’t be afraid of suffering for the Lord. Work at telling others the Good News, and fully carry out the ministry God has given you” (2 Timothy 4:3-5, NLT)

We must take seriously Paul’s warning to Timothy about the end times. Having discernment is a big part of it, to recognize when people are swapping truth for lies in pursuit of their own desires and agenda. Stay steady, think clearly, and communicate the Good News of Jesus consistently. Whatever gifts of ministry one has should be exercised. And don’t be afraid to suffer. It’s now or never. Let’s get on with it.

Lord, help us to be faithful in these last days, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Don Weller, used by permission. Thanks, Don, and God bless you.