Questioning what we accept in light of God’s standards
As we look around at the current state of America, many of us feel a deep concern. We see division, confusion, anger, dishonesty, injustice, and a growing disregard for human dignity. Whether a person identifies as Christian or not, these things should make us pause and ask an honest question: How can we call any of this acceptable before God, the Maker of heaven and earth and the Creator of all life?
The Measure of Right and Wrong
Every nation has to wrestle with questions of right and wrong. But for those who believe in God, the standard is not just public opinion, party loyalty, or personal preference. God’s Word gives us a higher standard. Micah 6:8 says that the Lord requires us “to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly” with Him. Amos 5:24 calls for justice to run down like water and righteousness like a mighty stream. Proverbs 14:34 reminds us that righteousness lifts up a nation, while sin brings shame to any people.
Facing Our National Reality
In America today, we see many painful realities: people talking past one another, truth being treated as optional, human life being devalued, and wrongdoing being excused when it benefits the people we like. It is easy to get used to these things because they are everywhere. But just because something becomes common does not mean it becomes right. Isaiah 5:20 warns against calling evil good and good evil. God does not lower His standard just because a culture changes its mind.
Responsibility Regardless of Belief
Even if someone does not claim the Christian faith, we all still have a conscience. Romans 2:15 speaks of the conscience bearing witness within the human heart. Deep down, most people know that cruelty is wrong, dishonesty is wrong, injustice is wrong, and treating people as disposable is wrong. We may disagree on many things, but we should not lose the basic moral understanding that people matter and truth matters.
A Call to Examine Our Hearts and Actions
Now is the time to ask ourselves hard questions. Are we helping heal the nation, or are we adding to the division? Are we standing for truth, or are we staying silent because speaking up is uncomfortable? Are we showing mercy, or have we become cold toward the suffering of others? Psalm 139:23-24 gives us a prayer we need in this hour: “Search me, O God, and know my heart.” Before we point fingers at everyone else, we must allow God to examine us.
Choosing a Higher Way
If we want America to move in a better direction, we cannot only demand change from leaders; we must also live differently ourselves. We must speak truth with love, refuse hatred, defend the vulnerable, care for our neighbors, and seek peace where we can. Romans 12:18 says, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” That does not mean ignoring wrong. It means correcting wrong without becoming hateful ourselves.
Conclusion: Returning to God’s Standard
America does not need to settle for whatever people are willing to accept. We need to return to what is right, just, merciful, and true. If God is the Creator of all life, then every life has value. If God is holy, then our conduct matters. If God is just, then our nation must care about justice. May our conscience be stirred, our hearts be searched, and our actions be changed. May we seek a higher standard—one worthy of God, the Maker of heaven and earth and the Creator of all life.
Minister A Francine Green, August 2026