Righteousness Exalts a Nation

"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people."
Proverbs 14:34 (English Standard Version)

I stumbled upon that verse countless of times before. The last time I read that verse was just minutes ago, while I was cross-referencing. I tried thinking about that verse and how it is manifested in our beloved Philippines.

As we all know, the economic situation of the Philippines is progressing very slowly. Although we see some developments especially in the PSE, economic growth is not felt by every Filipino family. The authorities say that the effects will be felt longterm, but what assurance would every Filipino family hold, especially now that there is a transition of leadership as the Senatorial election closes. Will the same policies be implemented, or will old ones be scrapped out? Will these provide security for that longterm effects to be felt?

So many questions. So many doubts.

Personally, I am questioning our state as a nation. We are branded as the only Christians nation in Asia, yet it seems as if God has not blessed this nation with a well-off daily standard of living, a lot of money, and good governance. Born again Evangelicals are growing in number. But how has this presence affected and created an impact to this nation?

I've been wondering if we Evangelicals have contributed to the world view of this country in terms of ethics and values. Jesus said that "we are the salt and light of the world..." Salt preserves, it seasons, it adds up to the satiety of foods. Light dispels darkness. We as Christians are expected to be dynamic in social transformation, wearing the emblem and carrying the colors of Christ. We are expected to season the world with God's love, and dispel darkness of sin with Christ's offer of salvation. We are meant to be primary movers of righteousness in this country.

In my mind, I know this is our task as Filipino Christians. And I presume that many Filipino Evangelicals like me think the same way. But why has the battle between corruption in this country has not yet ended? Why is it that there are still numerous and countless ills of this society that has not been healed in our presence? In the apparent failure of politics, what then is our role as a community of believers in this country?

I believe then that change must start from within. Cliche as it may sound, there is no other way than to start the change among ourselves. If we are in the unrighteous rut, then it is time to be lifted up, be placed on a new pavement, and move on with righteousness. And along the way, we influence others to a life of righteousness. Let us think about this:

What is our biblical view of money?
What is our biblical view of personal ethics? integrity?
What is our biblical view of time?
What is our biblical view of discipline?
What is our biblical view of the poor? the rich?
What is our biblical view of the government?
What is our biblical view of family?

And a lot more...

We have to think about these and compare our answers to those who do not have Christ yet in their hearts. If there is not much difference, then where do we get our personal values from? Values will shape our perspectives on things. And perspective will affect our reaction to situations. Reactions to certain situations manifests our attitude towards small-scale society, which in effect will be carried on into national viewpoint. A laudible national development therefore requires positive personal dynamism with regards to change.

We need to bring the values of Heaven to bear in our society. We need to start now and make a difference.

"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people."
Proverbs 14:34 (English Standard Version)



p.s. Wow, I can't believe I have written something like this...