Morals: From the top down or the bottom up?

Many assume that, if we could just elect the right people into public office, we could change the course of America and return to being a God-fearing nation with Christian moral values, but it doesn't work that way. Rather, we need to start at the bottom, with ourselves, our families and our friends and neighbors if we ever hope to turn the tide in America and see it again be a nation of God-fearing people committed to upholding Biblical moral values. Let me explain.

Should it be possible and we be able to succeed in electing a president and congress who fear God and are committed to traditional moral values, and should judges be appointed who also share those views, perhaps many of the gross immoralities committed in our land could be brought to a temporary halt. But without a change of heart among the people, the best anyone could hope for would be only temporary -- only a slowing of America's decay. The best we could have is a level of outward compliance compelled by fear of punishment.

And, realistically speaking, to change the course of America back to its roots from the top down would take a strong-handed government or a good dictator (if such a thing is even possible) who could only compel an outward form of morality rather than truly changing America's moral fiber.

Those desiring to see America return to its moral foundations and to a constitutional government based on a right understanding of human nature and of God-pleasing government really need to start working where it counts -- at the bottom with ourselves, our families and our acquaintances. Since the desire to live a good and upright life flows from a heart changed by God Himself -- a heart which fears God, acknowledges sin and error and looks in faith to God's mercy and forgiveness in His Son, Jesus Christ -- the right place to begin is by individually taking the time to read and study God's Word, the Bible, that we might know the truth, acknowledge our sins and erring ways and trust in Jesus Christ for mercy and forgiveness. And, since we would have our families know the truth as well, we need to read and study the Bible together with our spouses and our children. And, why not invite and include our friends and neighbors that God might reveal to them the truth and change their hearts? And from there, we could encourage our friends and neighbors to do the same -- to share the truth with their families and with their friends and neighbors.

In this way, America would not just be a land which compels morality; it could be a nation made up of citizens who know the truth and desire to live moral and God-pleasing lives because they trust in Jesus Christ as Savior and desire to please Him. It could be a nation made up, in ever-growing numbers, of God-fearing citizens who know human nature and see the importance of our Constitution's balance and limits of powers. It would be a nation which could thrive with limited government because the people would be able to govern themselves and love and respect their neighbors, Why? Because they know and depend upon the God of the Bible, who shows to us love and mercy in His Son.

Randy Moll is the managing editor of the Westside Eagle Observer. He may be contacted by email at [email protected]. Opinions expressed are those of the author.

Editorial on 03/09/2016