Reflections in a Fallen World (in light of Phil Robertson&Duck Dynasty)

Christian brothers & sisters, 

let us stop defending ourselves. Don't hide behind our "American rights." Don't make that our cause, our greatest battle, or our greatest loss in this life. These rights and amendments will too pass away with this earth. We are first children of the Almighty, Living God and not Americans. Let us stop debating the unfairness of Phil Robertson "The Duck Commander" situation and pointing fingers at the other side. Rejoice in this persecution for the Gospel! Join the persecuted! Don't be one doing the persecuting. And don't be surprised this is happening. (John 15:18-27)

Let our God defend us! Let His Glory shine bright in this situation! Not our own. May we stand strong in Him, fervent in prayer, relentlessness in love and grace to ALL, and faithful to our witness of the Gospel message!

May our faith look more like Phil Robertson and not like the slanderers and arguers of the "other" side. And may our faith look like Our Savior Jesus Christ's (who didn't plead for earthly rights or about acts of unfairness committed against Him) as He was persecuted on His way to the cross to die for us, and not like those who threw stones nor like those who hid in safe places.

Our attitudes and purpose should reflect the Gospel - NOT ourselves or the "American" way or even Phil Robertson. (Ephesians 5:1-2) We are Christians - we (I included in all these statements) are here to reflect Christ to the world. What great opportunity and spotlight there is here. Individually we need to consider what each of us is reflecting in light of this situation (and other situations) - Is fear reflected? Self preservation? Phil Robertson & Duck Dynasty? the American way? that we are great debaters? Or faith in God and the Gospel?

Let us walk through this as Christ (persecuted through the sharing of the Gospel) walking with God (Our Defender)! And Rejoice!

-teani

Matthew 10:28

28 Do not fear those who kill the body but are unable to kill the soul; but rather fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.

Psalm 59:17
17 O my strength, I will sing praises to You;
For God is my stronghold, the God who shows me loving kindness.

Romans 12:19
19 Never take your own revenge, beloved, but leave room for the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord.

Philippians 4:4
4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice!