Impacting our Nation


In 1 Timothy 2:1-4, the apostle Paul urged his son in the faith to encourage Christians 
everywhere to pray – "I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and 
thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may 
live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.  This is good, and pleases 
God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the 
truth."

As this article is written, the national election is only a few days away.  Soon we will 
have elected new United States government leaders.  While these individuals will affect 
our lives in many ways—taxes, new laws, the economy, social security, world peace, 
national security, etc.—our primary concern as Christians should be a political climate in 
which the gospel can be preached unopposed and without hindrance.

While the moral fabric of our country is affected by the leadership of our elected 
officials, it is time that Christians realize that we are the salt of the earth and the light of 
the world (Matthew 5:13-16).  If America is to be known as a "righteous nation," it will be 
because of the influence of thousands of Christians in communities all across this 
country demonstrating the character of Christ and sharing the Gospel message with 
their neighbors and friends.

If you want to affect the economical and political direction of this country, take part in the 
political process.  But if you want to change the moral direction of our nation, take some 
time this week to talk to your neighbors, friends, and work associates about the only one 
who can really bring change—Jesus Christ our Lord!


Leslie S. Chapman