"SALVATION BELONGS TO JEHOVAH"

AT TIMES, of national crisis and international tension, people look to their government for safety and security. Governments for their part step up programs designed to rally the support of the populace. The more the feeling of patriotism is fostered by such programs, the more spirited and frequent become the observances of patriotic ceremonies.

During a national emergency, patriotic fervor often gives people a sense of unity and strengthen and may promote a spirit of cooperation and civic-mindedness among them. However, "patriotism is as volatile as any emotion," states an article in the New York Times Magazine, since "once released, it can assume ugly forms." Expressions of it may take a turn that can encroach on the civil liberties and religious freedom of certain citizens of the country. True Christians particularly come under pressure to compromise their beliefs. How do they conduct themselves when such an atmosphere engulfs the world around them? What Scriptural principles help them to act with insight and to maintain integrity to God?

Next time: "You Must Not Bow Down to Them"

Watchtower, 2002