PATIENT IN AFFLICTION
by Cheryl Skordahl
by Cheryl Skordahl
About Ireland and the Irish of 1843, the historical novel OF MEN & OF ANGELS by authors Bodie and Brock Thoene, teaches much about being patient in affliction. Set in the time when Ireland was owned and controlled entirely by the English, the story follows the life of Joseph Connor Burke who identifies with the commoners since he had been one himself, inheriting the estate and the lands of Ballynockanor later in life.
Seeing the tyranny of the English in every crevas of life, Joseph agrees to work with Daniel O’Connell and his Repeal movement, desiring true representation of the Irish in the English House of Commons – and to gain this representation without bloodshed. The story introduces the reader to multiple layers of villainy, all of whom have one thing in common – there desire for more power and the downfall of the Repeal movement. Joseph works prayerfully and tirelessly through much persecution, toward the goal of an Ireland that has true representation in the government.
Although the book was published in 1998, questions regarding the current issues in our country reverberated in my mind as I read the discussion questions at the end of this novel. Are there similarities between this novel and the plight of the United States under the current administration? Without trying to over dramatize, I believe the answer to the question is a resounding, “yes!” I am one who believes that the multiple bills that are currently before congress, will promote exorbitant changes in our country – changes that will affect the freedoms that American’s know today.
What are Christian Americans to do about these changes that the government seems bent on delivering? The WORD’S OF INSPIRATION in this article come in the form of a challenge. A challenge to put into practice the words of Romans 12:11 & 12.
1. BE AGLOW AND BURNING WITH THE SPIRIT. Check your spiritual temperature in light of the Word of God. Are you putting your complete trust and dependence in the Lord Jesus Christ? Are you sold out to him? Have you determined not to live for yourself, but for the Lord and others? Are you living empowered by the Holy Spirit?
2. BE CONSTANT IN PRAYER. Include prayer for our nation in your prayers – frequently each day. Pray for other Christians and Christian families to be inspired by the Holy spirit and strengthened to rise up and move as the Lord directs.
3. NEVER LAG IN ZEAL, AND IN EARNEST ENDEAVOR. Follow the leading of the Lord and WORK as He instructs you individually and corporately, to insure that our freedoms as Americans are protected. If we do nothing, they will win. Always maintain a hopeful attitude.
4. BE STEADFAST AND PATIENT IN SUFFERING AND TRIBULATION. Trust God for the future, even though persecutions may come. In our novel, when Joseph was persecuted through damage to his reputation, his earthly dwelling, and his physical body, he was counseled with these works, “circumstances are never as damaging’ to us as how we take on about them.” Don’t loose heart, God’s ultimate plan will succeed.
5. REJOICE AND EXULT IN HOPE. In patience, press on – not giving up until our freedoms are secure. In this you will be serving the Lord enthusiastically.
