Morality Matters

"If it feels good, do it," the philosophy of the 60's and 70's, has wreaked havoc on our society; its outcome epitomized in the highest office of our country. In recent generations there has been a gradual turning away from the old-fashioned, straight-laced, moral standard and a trend toward living free to do whatever. Conscientious morality has given way to unrestrained self-gratification. A clear sense of right and wrong has blurred to the point of obscurity in the hearts and minds of many.

It's a grievous time for the president and his family and for the nation. Everyone loses when sin, as God calls it, runs rampant. But in the midst of any ordeal, wisdom can always be gained. This regrettable situation can serve as a lesson for people of all ages. Wrong choices made at any time in one's life will play out. It's important to live above reproach and embrace qualities that keep us pure and unscathed.

Throughout life temptation beckons, and there is plenty of opportunity for even the most devout to fall into sin.

However, God looks on the heart. He embraces those who come to Him wanting to change. The person who recognizes his wrong, truly repents, and earnestly turns from his sin is forgiven and receives restoration; but those who recklessly continue will ultimately reap destruction. As Romans 6:23 states, "The wages of sin is death."

Gallup studies show that 94% of Americans believe in God and 89% perceive themselves as Christians. If we claim to be people of God, why is there such dysfunction in the land? Following God's ways is not found in merely carrying the Bible to church, making an appearance, and listening to an inspiring message. It's in building a lifelong, daily relationship in God's presence, seriously studying the Bible

and fulfilling its principles.

There are many who think morality doesn't matter, as long as an individual does a good job in the workplace.

Immorality has far-reaching effects: it decays the soul and sears the conscience, families are betrayed, and society is threatened. The breakdown of the home can stem from a series of moral choices. Every impropriety and crime committed has to do with a moral choice.

Just take the ramifications of sexual infidelity accompanied by lying. This breach of honor and trust has caused millions of divorces. Wounded and embittered spouses pick up the shattered pieces and make do, relying on family members or tax dollars to help out. The security of countless children is undermined. Some children recover from the crushing blow, but many deal with deep emotional trauma

that lasts a lifetime. Too often these products of divorce repeat the same behavior in their own lives.

The majority of imprisoned criminals come from infidelity-infested broken homes. Untold numbers of adults, teens, and kids act out their hurt and anger in the form of violence, preying on innocent victims. The lives of the innocent and their families are changed forever. In most cases, violence can be traced back to a number of moral choices which have come down from generation to generation, and our nation is reeling from the consequences of that immorality. There is no denying the fact that character makes the man. The decisions people make in private on a daily basis

ultimately affect not just themselves, but others. The truth, which is the basis of God's Word, will always come out eventually. It's a spiritual law. "Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also

reap." (Galatians 6:7)

Even though people disregard Biblical principles and the concept of sin, the truth of the Bible still prevails. The lesson here, brought home by the Clinton scandal, should serve as a wake up call to those engaged in similar misdeeds.

Your sin will find you out. No one is exempt, not even our president.