One of America’s founding fathers, Alexander Hamilton, said, “Those who stand for nothing fall for anything.” Bible commentator Mathew Henry added, “A Christian is always in danger. By his faith alone, he will be able to keep his ground.”

Stand up and bless the Lord your God from everlasting to everlasting.

Nehemiah 9:5

While religious persecution runs at high pitch in Africa, the Middle East and Asia, American Christians are sheltered from physical onslaught. Yet atheist and other anti-faith groups want to abolish God from the public square, dismantle memorial crosses that honor veterans, and destroy ages-old sanctities of marriage and life. Those who serve God and the cause of Christ can no longer sit in idleness on the sidelines. As with the people of Nehemiah’s day, Christians need to confess their sins and stand up, boldly proclaiming that they belong to God.

The coming year shows no promise of a let-up by your adversary. Are you ready in 2015 to take your place – with the jailed pastor in Iran, Christian aid worker in Liberia, and the teenage girl in New Jersey fighting to keep the right to say “under God” in her Pledge? Prayerfully consider your watchfulness, your depth of faith, and your willingness to be among those who stand.

Recommended Reading: Nehemiah 9:1-6