God and Country: I Stand in the Gap; Will You?

by Larry Brasington

Are you a warrior or a spectator? Good question. Our nation has faced many trials in its 234-year history following the declaration of Independence on July 4th, 1776. One of the greatest, up until now, was the election of 1860. The election of Abraham Lincoln sparked a fire that tore our country apart, dividing families, states, and our people. Southerners took the election of Illinois Congressman as a signal that they could no longer ignore. It was time for action to defend themselves and their rights. Their rights guaranteed by the very Constitutional government they wished to leave.

Our nation today finds itself again on the course where the coming election is for high stakes--our freedom. Two ideologies are once again striving to assert their causes. Who will win?

Unlike most nations, we have a choice. We still have the choice of voting for who governs us. Will we join the fray or choose to step back? God's Word is true when it says, "If my people, called by my name will humble themselves and pray, I will restore them." That is certainly a truth each of us must consider at this critical time. Yet, is there more?

I believe so. It is time to sound the alarm and prepare. I feel we must become active. We must make an effort, whether it is to vote, or drive people to the polls, or hold signs and protest. It is time. The apostle James says, "My brothers, what good is it for someone to say that he has faith if his actions do not prove it?" (James 2:14) What am I saying?

Gentlemen, it is time to take action. Time to become involved in this election of 2010. Our country needs men of integrity to vote, drive people to the polls, give campaign donations and, of course, pray. Pray for our leaders and our government, so that all men may live in peace. Nearly half a million men died in the War Between the States. Are we there again? Let us hope and pray not.

I will leave you with the great words of our 16th President, Abraham Lincoln, during his second inaugural address. "
With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation's wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just, and a lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations."

Larry Brasington