Navigating Our Times!

Steering our way through today's cultural waters is not easy...

When a sailboat launches in the direction of its destination many obstacles may prove to be a challenge! Unexpected changes in the weather...the direction of the wind, rising waves and powerful storms may lurk beyond what the pilot or captain is able to see or know. Therefore, it is imperative that he/she is prepared to navigate the vessel towards its desired destination safely. Of course, enjoying the journey without getting off course is always splendid!

To navigate the vessel is to plan, direct, or plot the path or position of the boat or ship over (waves), through, or on the water. The pilot may be using instruments, maps or the stars in order to direct the boat accordingly. The voyage is challenging, but rewarding. Sometimes risky, but exhilarating. Good navigation is key to success!

Just like some seas or oceans are tough to navigate...the times in which we live may be tough to navigate. Every generation has its own obstacles. Today, there seems to be an increasing number of obstacles, distractions and cultural storms to get us off course. Therefore, knowing our plan...plotting our path or positioning ourselves properly is essential. More than that - it is rewarding. For Christians, being able to navigate ourselves through troubled waters is non-negotiable in order to please God and remain focused on His will and way for our lives. This is imperative not only for ourselves, but for our families, neighborhoods, churches and our nation.

Today's cultural rough waters include politics gone mad, perversion of truth and tradition and pluralism on steroids! Politicians seem more interested in serving themselves rather than the citizens. Too many "civil servants" are not civil, nor are they servants! Many politicians desire to be liked more by protesters and criminals than by law abiding citizens.

Additionally, individuals and institutions across the landscape are hell-bent on destroying the Christian faith, the nuclear family and the freedom Americans have enjoyed since America's founding. They accomplish this by perverting or twisting Scripture and real history to fit their narrative. Of course, freedom of religion is a foundational element of our nation...but, that has been corrupted in order to lift up other religions and their religious practices above those of our Christian faith and heritage in the name of pluralism.

So, how do you navigate your way these dark days of politics, perversion and pluralism?

First, Focus by keeping your eyes on "the Author and Perfecter of your faith." If you want to disentangle yourself from todays nightmares...your focus must be clear and compelling. Christ, Himself, has set the course. He has not lost His way. His power is not diminished. His light is not dim. Our Lord is not caught off-guard. Nor, does He panic. So, do not lose sight of Him, His Word and His will for you. Proverbs 3:5-6 states, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart. And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight."

Second, Fight by utilizing the armor of God. Be intentional about engaging the culture...with the proper uniform. You need the breastplate of righteousness because the devil has targeted you. You need the proper footwear in order to keep you footing. So, make sure your feet are secured in the gospel of peace. Do not restrain from getting involved. Have the courage to never retreat. Just make sure you put on the full armor of God, first. Paul said to Timothy, "Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called," 1 Timothy 6:12. Also, in Ephesians 6:10ff, "Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God... "

Third, Finish the race God has called you to run. Don't just run the race of life. Finish this life by running well. Don't give up. Have the fortitude to press on no matter the obstacle. Have the resilience to bounce back after defeat or failure. Do not allow the devil and his band of demons discourage you from pursuing the truth and shining the light of Christ in this world. Satan would love for you to quit when times get tough. He wants you to throw in the towel. Don't! Hang in there...persevere. Finish the race when fighting the good fight God is equipping you to fight and finish strong. Again, Paul said to Timothy, "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

So, dear friend, navigate your way through todays chaos by focusing, fighting and finishing. Focus on the Lord, Jesus. Fight the good fight of faith with the armor God has provided. Finish the race...stay the course. Not everything will turn out the way you would like. It's ok! Keep at it. Grow in your faith. Serve the Lord and others with devotion and determination. None of us know what tomorrow brings, but God's Word will guide us through tough waters. Good sailing!

Bruce