Tomorrow marks the United States' annual observance of Independence Day. We are duly grateful for the favor that has long attended our nation as a free society.
At the same time, perhaps few greater anomalies presently exist than the fact that such a society - by its own acknowledgement, existent "under God" - should find it increasingly expedient to sanction the suppression of public expression in relation to that Source "from Whom all blessings flow."
Nor need it be pointed out to the objectively observant that the benefits with which we have long been blessed shall, in correspondence to the ongoing declension, themselves prove increasing elusive.
Wherein lies the answer? We would here offer two points as bearing vital significance:
1.) Need exists for a widespread spiritual awakening. It is within this context that Matthew 24:14 (universal witness) finds ultimate application;
2.) With regard to developing world conditions at large, the directive is that the believing community "be not alarmed, for all these things (spiritual deception; political conflict; ecological disaster; persecution; false prophets; lawlessness, etc.) must needs come to pass" (Matt. 24:4-12).
Within a synthesis of the preceding lies the call to God's people for a vibrant end time witness in conjunction with, and predicated upon, our Lord's assurance that "he who endures to the end shall be delivered" (Matt. 24:13, "saved," KJV).
Restated: night will be followed by the dawn.
In the meantime, we must pray for America. Much is at stake.
Burl Ratzsch
