"And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: Knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly." — Romans 5:3-6
As we witnessed on Wednesday night, our nation is at a critical crossroads and the direction of our future hangs in the balance.
Our democratic system has placed two candidates before us and they both have presented their resumes to the people of the United States, hoping to be the next leader of this great nation, and the commander-in-chief of one of the greatest fighting forces ever to be assembled, the United States military.
However, it seems that many have forgotten the tremendous lengths some have gone to hinder others from voting. So, I remind us to look where we’ve come from and keep progressing forward. I believe we now have one of the safest, most productive voting systems in the world; not perfect, but one of the best in the world.
And I believe that we all have a responsibility to seek God, then make a wise decision to vote, not just nationally, but locally also. Whether it be for one party or the other, or you decide to write-in your vote. Just vote!
Collectively on this ballot, we will have the opportunity to vote on Sunday alcohol sales, the SPLOST 1 percent tax, the sheriff’s office, chairman of the county commission, etc.
Paul, in the book of Romans, found himself encouraging the saints so that they wouldn’t forget that God had blessed them even in the midst of hardship. Our past tribulations were working on our patience, our patience gave us the experience, our experience gave us the confidence of our hope, and the building of our hope in Christ makes us not ashamed.
The Church at Rome was "the place to be" during that time. In the midst of millions of people, Paul had to tell this group of believers to hold on to the faith.
Never forget where God has brought you from. Many of our testimonies are not pretty, but we have overcome and we live to move forward in Christ. Look where God has brought you from and give him the praise for all that he has done.
The old saints use to give this testimony, "The Lord picked me up, turned me around, and placed my feet on solid ground."
He’s brought us from a mighty long way and He deserves the praise!
Hayes is pastor of New Day Community Church and the president of the United Ministerial Alliance.