“But be not thou far from me, O LORD: O my strength, haste thee to help me.” Psalm 22:19
As citizens of the United States, we have certain rights that are guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. A few examples of these rights include the freedom of worship, the right to keep and bear arms, the right to due process, and the right to peaceful assembly. These rights are not earned; they are a part of one’s citizenship. If people feel that their rights have been infringed upon, they will often become upset and demand their rights be reinstated.
As Christians, we have certain “rights” as well. The Bible explains the rights that God gives us when we accept Christ as our Saviour. There is nothing we have to do to receive them except first accept God’s gift of salvation through His Son, Jesus Christ. Like our political rights, we cannot earn our spiritual rights. They are part of our citizenship in heaven, which we obtain upon becoming Christians. Here is a partial list of our “rights.”
In America, a citizen also has certain responsibilities, such as voting or defending the Constitution. It is interesting to note that our civic responsibilities are often not demanded or exercised. Sometimes they are not even regarded as important, so they are often neglected or ignored. Citizens can be quick to demand their rights, but reluctant to meet their civic responsibilities.
Along with the rights, Christians also have responsibilities, but sadly, sometimes those responsibilities are disregarded as well. Here is a partial list of spiritual responsibilities.
Rights, whether civic or Christian, are passively acquired; responsibilities require action. It’s easy to accept one’s rights, but it takes courage to step up and be responsible as a citizen and as a Christian.
It may not be on the mountain’s height, or over the stormy sea;
It may not be at the battle’s front, my Lord will have need of me;
But if by a still, small voice He calls, to paths that I do not know,
I’ll answer, dear Lord, with my hand in Thine, I’ll go where You want me to go.
I’ll go where You want me to go, dear Lord, o’er mountain, or plain, or sea;
I’ll say what You want me to say, dear Lord, I’ll be what You want me to be.
(from “I’ll Go Where You Want Me To Go” by Mary Brown)
“Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” James 2:17
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Are you a passive or active follower of Jesus?