Events over the past two weeks have shaken our nation and provoked outrage, unrest, and anxiety. We as followers of Jesus, as His church, need to pray and seek understanding about what God would want us to think and do. My own opinion in these matters is shaped by academic studies in the area of the Bible and the American slavery controversy. Thank God that slavery was abolished! The sin of racism, however, underlying the institution of slavery was not abolished. It evolved into the racial segregation practiced in the Southern United States and elsewhere after slavery’s abolition. Thank God for the Civil Rights Act of 1964! It ended segregation. The present crisis of our country is forcing us again to consider the presence of racism in our nation. It deserves our prayer and attention.
How should I pray?
- Pray for PEACE, because “the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God” (James 1:20).
- Pray for PERSPECTIVE, because “the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere” (James 3:17).
- Pray for PATIENCE, because of God’s “kindness and forbearance and patience” toward us all (Romans 2:4).
- Pray for an OUTPOURING of His wisdom and direction for our leaders and officials who are dealing with this crisis. Ask God to change hearts and heal this divide in our nation. [ 1 ]
What else should I do?
Be willing to listen to others.
In all of our conversations, let’s listen. This may involve listening to different opinions with which you disagree!
He who answers before listening, that is his folly and his shame. Proverbs 18:13
Be willing to learn from others.
Besides media influences we might label as “liberal” or “conservative”, sample other sources, especially longer articles written by people who are actually affected by what is happening.
For the ear tests words as the tongue tastes food. Job 34:3
Be willing to love others.
Be alert for opportunities to show love and understanding to people who have been affected by this crisis, and be willing to support any changes in our society that you believe honor Jesus Christ.
Love your neighbor as yourself. Love does no harm to its neighbor. Therefore, love is the fulfillment of the law. Romans 13:9-10
God is at work in what is happening right now in our country, and there are and will be many opportunities to share and show His love in Jesus. Be prayerful, be willing, and be ready.
-Pastor Jack Davidson
