California’s Wounds and the Christian’s Willingness

Our state is hurting. From north to south, its deep wounds are gushing blood of fire and bullets. It desperately needs the healing touch of God; it needs a new heart. From where can such a healing touch come? Through whom will Jesus bring His restoring gospel? There is only one entity on earth that can be the delivery vehicle for such a thing–The Church of Jesus Christ.

I believe the more we as Christians become committed to fulfilling our mandate and mission to preach the gospel and make disciples, the less we will have to turn to the government to curb the evil actions brought forth from the human heart. Change people’s hearts, and you will need less gun control. Change people’s hearts, and abortion clinics will shut down due to lack of business. Change people’s hearts, and their identity in Christ will speak louder than their raging sexual confusion. Change people’s hearts, and our schools will become safer places for our children’s hearts and minds. Change people’s hearts, and the ”least of these” will be compassionately served. Sometimes I wonder if we as Christians in America hide behind political curtains because if we were exposed and naked, having to stand on our own, we would have to face how weak, apathetic, selfish, and powerless we’ve become. It’s easier to blame a political party than it is to pick up the torch of Christ and offer oneself as a living sacrifice to carry that torch courageously into the darkness.

Church, please don’t misunderstand me; as long as there is wickedness in the world, we will need government; and until Christ returns, there will always be wickedness in the world. Government is an institution that has been established by God to punish evil and praise good (Romans 13, 1 Peter 2). As citizens of heaven and temporary citizens of this nation, we should do all we can to ensure that the government we elect is an ethical, moral, and upright one. As best we can in this broken system, we should vote our biblical worldview, run for political offices, and be active, godly citizens. In the process of doing these things, we must be careful not to redirect our trust from God to government or forfeit our true spiritual identity and call! It is the church, not the government that is called to be, ”The pillar and ground of the truth.” Let’s arise, take up our crosses, and live radical faith-filled lives. We, as Christ’s ambassadors, have a divinely granted opportunity here and now to change our communities one life at a time.

Thoughts on Leaving California #CalExit

I offer this post very thoughtfully, graciously, and without any judgment. I’ve heard a lot of talk about #CalExit and leaving the state of California due to our progressive political atmosphere, liberal state leadership, and flailing moral climate. I understand the inner turmoil. These things break my heart as well, but I don’t believe they are good, biblical reasons to leave. The only reason you or I should ever move to one place and leave another is if God calls us to do so for His Kingdom purposes. Let us not forget the words of Paul to the Philippians. He writes, “For our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ…” Those examples of faith in Hebrews 11, “Acknowledged that they were strangers and exiles on the earth.” We are told that Abraham, “Lived in the land of promise as in a foreign land… For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations, whose designer and builder is God.” This sinful world, in its fallen state, cannot and should not ever feel like our permanent home. The best city, our eternal home, is yet to come. Until then, we as followers of Christ have to resolve to be a beacon of His hope and truth wherever He calls us.

If, after diligently seeking His face, God calls you to leave California, by all means, go by faith. If not, don’t allow your desire for worldly comfort and security to dictate your actions. Rather, become a missionary and stay. There is much need for the “salt and light” to continue its work in this state.

Like the pilgrims of old, there might come a day when we have to legitimately flee in order to protect our lives so that we can continue to carry the gospel to the world. Paul the apostle had to do this on several occasions as well. I think it’s safe to say we aren’t at that point yet. So, before you pack up and move to the state of Utopia or the garden of Eden, remember that the world is merely your temporary address, not your permanent home. Go or stay based not on your personal or political preferences, but on the leading of the Holy Spirit for the glory of Jesus Christ and His kingdom. #CalShine

Vote in Jesus Name

The Bible conveys an interesting principle for believers. Our lives are to be full of decisions and actions that are carried out, “In Jesus name.” What’s in a name? Well, when it comes to Jesus, just about everything. When I do something in Jesus name, I’m declaring that I’m reflecting His character, communicating His heart, and expressing His will. To the Colossians, Paul the Apostle writes, “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.” Notice it’s not just big things we do, but all things. Jesus even told us that sharing a cup of water in His name with someone who’s thirsty goes down in heaven’s record books.

What does this have to do with voting? I believe that if Jesus cares about water, he cares about your vote. As a Christian, when you vote with the name of Jesus attached to it, the policies you’re voting for or against do matter. I could wax philosophical right here, but instead, I’ll get right down to the practical. I’m going to give you a few reasons why I believe the Bible calls the American Christian to actively and prayerfully participate in the process of choosing their leaders and laws.

Shining in every arena

”You are the light of the world… You are the salt of the earth.” Jesus wasn’t making suggestions when He spoke these truths to His disciples. In this dark world, Christians must make their presence known through their love for each other, love for the world, and love for the truth. I’ve been guilty at times of only shining in the arenas that I’m comfortable shining in. It’s comfortable for me to shine in the church, at home, and with my neighbors and friends. The place I’ve struggled the most to shine is in the political arena (honest confession). Somehow many of our minds have been conditioned to believe that Christ’s Kingdom work is disconnected from the realm of politics.