Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Philippians 4:8 (NIV)
One of my wonderful Christian friends sent me a disturbing email about the new one-dollar coins released by the government. Knowing my friend is not a coin collector, I was intrigued by what his message said about the new money. In short, the message claimed that the government had removed the words, “In God We Trust”, from these new coins.
When I looked at the supplied pictures, I was impressed by the beauty of the coins that feature the face of a President on one side and the Statue of Liberty on the other. When I read about the dollar coins, I understood the mint’s very practical reason for putting out one-dollar hard money, which would last a lot longer than the equivalent denomination printed on paper. Still, no matter the virtues and advantages of having a one-dollar coin, I was shocked that the words, “In God We Trust”, which has been part of our money since the 1950’s, had been omitted. I imagine you’re shocked, too.
Don’t be. The words, “In God We Trust”, are still on the coins. It’s just that the words are a little bit harder to find. They, along with the date the coin was minted and the words “E PLURIBUS UNUM”, have been moved to the EDGE of the coin.
Now, at this point in the devotion, you may be asking, “What’s the point?” The world is doing all it can to undermine the Savior, His death, and His resurrection. In such situations, God’s people must take a stand for the Lord’s truth. Christians must also be careful that we don’t cry “wolf” when no wolves are around. In other words, we need to get our facts straight, lest we embarrass ourselves and the cause of Christ.
Saint Paul touched upon what I’m saying when he encouraged the members of the church at Philippi to think about those things which are right, pure, and praiseworthy. We are blessed to have a Savior who gave His life so that all who believe on Him might be forgiven and have eternal life. Jesus’ great and gracious story of salvation for sinners is the excellent and praiseworthy "good news of great joy" that we have and are honored to share.
My friends, the days are coming, and indeed, are now here when Christians will have to take a stand for God’s certainty. Let us do so “having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness.” (Ephesians 6:14) Only in that way will we be able to confront the evil day.
THE PRAYER: Dear Lord Jesus, You have given me the honor of being your witness in a world which wishes to shove You to the side. May the battles I fight be good, honest, and true. Let every action of the church point to You as the Savior who alone is true, noble, and right. In Your Name, I ask it. Amen.
Today's Bible Readings: Numbers 15-16 Mark 14:54-72
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