Deteriorating family structure and values

Declining engagement with the Bible

Generational anxiety

From a high altitude, it’s easy to agree with those who view America’s moral landscape to be headed on a path through a self-locking door. It’s not just their opinion, though. Surveys over the past several years tell us that

Indeed, some (Eric Metaxas - If You Can Keep It: The Forgotten Promise of American Liberty; Ross Douthat, New York Times, et al.) question whether we’ve already gone through that gate. My bend is towards that opinion. But I also believe that most of us either don't know it or don't care.

As dark as this thought is, though, there is a light illuminating the travel of the believer - the light of hope. Hope does not mean to wish, but to await with certainty. For the believer, the armory of God has been opened to us, with which we may withstand and overcome in darkness - 

Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. (Ephesians 6:13 NASB) 

For those who choose it, armor is protection. The protection of the shield (v. 16) is assurance of security though faith. The sword, "which is the word of God" (v. 17), makes one stronger and able to fight off evil. The sword also requires training, however, so that it may be used properly.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. (2 Timothy 3:16-17 ESV)

To train in the Word of God requires familiarity and "working" knowledge. If anything contained in these pages is fruitful, in that regard, may it please Him.

With and through the Word of God, we may collectively defend our families, neighborhoods, and nation.

[A legitimate addition here would be that warriors, with whom we may join in battle, are also necessary. Communion among all believers is not only obedience to our Lord and Savior, but also a vital component in the life of a true disciple. I believe that to be a must, however it is not a subject specific to these pages.]