one to one: Lessons about life, ministry, and grandkids

by Keith Burden, Executive Secretary, National Association of Free Will Baptists

If...

Our nation is in crisis! Politicians and pundits debate and disagree over the cause. Opinions run the gamut—the economy, unemployment, healthcare, education, and defense. The list is practically endless. Yet the myriad challenges facing our nation are not the root cause of the problem. They are merely symptomatic.

America has a moral problem…a serious moral problem. It did not develop overnight. It has been years in the making. Our nation has ignored God, disregarded His Word, and done what is right in its own eyes. These years of accumulated neglect and willful moral rebellion have taken their toll. Our sins have come home to roost.

I am not suggesting there is a quick, easy fix. There isn’t! The road to recovery will be a long, difficult journey. Sadly, many of our countrymen lack the desire and discipline necessary to make the trip. Some, even those who are the most hopeful and optimistic, wonder if we haven’t gone too far.

Some are convinced the answer lies in political activism. To be sure, each of us is compelled to shoulder his civic responsibility. However, spiritual problems require spiritual solutions. The remedy for the ills our nation faces will not be found solely at the ballot box.

God’s Word has the prescription for what ails America. It’s so simple and obvious that we practically stumble over it. Second Chronicles 7:14 says, “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” That’s the solution in a nutshell. I repeat—it’s simple, but it won’t be easy.

I believe God is waiting for His people to take the initiative and follow the steps He outlined in 2 Chronicles 7:14. That’s why I’m asking every Free Will Baptist pastor and church to consider participating in a national denominational day of prayer. On Sunday, November 4, let us put 2 Chronicles 7:14 into action as we humble ourselves, pray, seek God’s face, and turn from our sin.

Is that all there is to it? No. Hopefully it will lead to something far greater and more significant. God alone knows! But, it is a step in the right direction. IF we take that first step, perhaps the Lord will begin to hear, forgive, and heal our land. Will you join me?

About the Column

One to One is a regular feature of ONE Magazine. Written by Keith Burden, executive secretary of the National Association of Free Will Baptists, the column explores life, ministry...and the joys of grandchildren.