As we celebrate this Memorial Day, we need to remember it is more than just a three day weekend, more than a great time to BBQ and more than the official start of summer. It is a day to remember and honor all of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to defend this great country and all the freedoms we enjoy each and every day, and at times, tend to take for granted. We also need to take the time to thank God, for it is his divine power and wisdom that created those men and women, in his image, and gave them the strength, the courage and the beliefs, to defend this country, and to defend you and your family.
Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things.
Psalm 107:8-9
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Just as those men and women defended this great nation because of their beliefs, we can continue to defend this nation, our lives and our children's future by doing just what we always have; believing in our Father in Heaven and keeping Jesus Christ in our hearts and in our lives.
There may be times that people will judge us for our beliefs, and we all know that the enemy will do everything in his power to defeat us, but we have the greatest power in the universe backing us and He has provided us with the armor to defend ourselves and our families. Now more than ever this world is crumbling around us and the enemy is celebrating as we watch everyday the evil taking place in every nation, including our own. We may not be able to stop all the evil that is taking place, but believe me when I say, that we can in our own lives, our own communities, our own country. We need to stand up, raise our voices and be sure that we are heard. We need God in our lives, in our towns, in our schools and in our country.
Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Ephesians 6:10-17
That scripture prepares you for battle against any enemy and to defend the beliefs you each hold, and then, be able to stand your ground. We all know that this country has lost its way from God, and unfortunately I fear it will get worse before it gets better, but you have the power to protect yourself and your family and anyone who will listen. And for those that will not listen or choose not to believe, pray for them and hope they find their way.
I am a Christian and I am a Pastor, but do not take my love for all God's people as weakness; for I am also an American, a patriot, a veteran, a husband and a father, and I for one will stand up and defend against the enemy and all those that he uses for his wicked ways, my faith, my family and my flag.
As I speak a blessing over each of you this morning, always remember, I am here for you if you ever need to talk or get something off your chest or if you need prayer for yourselves, your family or your friends. Please do not hesitate to send me a message.
May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Dear Father God, thank you for blessing us with this day and loving us as Your children. Watch over each and every one of us as we start each day, as we go through this week, keeping us in the palm of Your hand. Guide us in our daily lives, directing us on the path You have planned for us, bringing forth the dreams you have planted in each of our hearts. For we know who we are and whose we are, children of the most high God. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.
"Keep your Faith strong, your Hope alive and your Prayers never ending."
God Bless
Pastor Mark
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