2 Timothy 3: 14-15 tells us to continue to learn and to firmly believe in who taught us about our sacred scriptures and to continue to grow our faith for our salvation through faith in Jesus Christ. All scriptures are inspired by God and are useful for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness. Our efforts to follow the wisdom of the Bible will equip everyone who is a child of God to do good works.
Yesterday, seven million Americans took part in 2700 “No King Protests” across this country. I was one of those Americans who is not willing to let evil take over the country that I love. Following Apostle Paul’s writings, we should realize that we have a responsibility to stand up against the abusive government that has overtaken our country. We are to love one another as we would want to be loved, not find ways to put people down. People’s needs will not be met if these abuses co0ntinue, and the country I love will fall into a totalitarian state. People were peaceful yesterday, and they believed that there is a better way to make sure our country stays a democracy. If we all took responsibility for our country, it would be a better place for everyone.
Sadly, my fears and doubts about the direction of our country does not place me in the minority. I listened to an elderly native American who sang about his pain and that he would willingly go to jail to fight for democracy. Jesus told his disciples to always pray and to never give up. I am a Christian, and I put my trust in Christ, not in selfish government officials. Many Americans have left organized religion, saying that it does not meet their needs; however, our nation needs God more now than at any other time in our history. We did not make it through so many wars and economic problems without God; He has always been with us. He gave us the perseverance, the fortitude, and the courage to continue on, despite horrendous odds. If I had had the courage, I would have sung, “God Bless America,” but my fear kept me from trying. We need to return to the values taught us by our Founding Fathers and to realize that they, too, were worried about the future. They put their faith in God, not in themselves, and a nation almost 250 years old has risen from the dust and mud of the New World.
My family has fought to preserve our freedoms here and abroad. My first protest was scary but necessary as gratitude for their sacrifices and as my contribution, though small, to fight for democracy. I believe in God, and I put my trust in Him. He, alone, directs our path as a nation. His wisdom will guide us as we fight to remain free. I hope and pray that Americans will never give up and remember their duty to put God first, not last.
Anna Hartt
