#35 Home of The Brave

Dr. Stephen Phinney: The rise of wokism, characterized by heightened awareness and activism around social justice issues, has significantly influenced the cultural landscape in America.

America, once hailed as the “Home of the Brave,” stood as an international example of courage and resilience - today, not so much. It was a land where the spirit of bravery was woven into the very fabric of its spiritual identity, inspiring generations to rise above challenges and strive for greatness while depending on God we Trust. For many, like me, this legacy of valor and determination remains a testament to the enduring strength and unwavering resolve that defined a nation.

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HOME OF THE BRAVE

The phrase “Home of the Brave” originates from the final line of the United States national anthem, “The Star-Spangled Banner,” written by Francis Scott Key during the War of 1812. The anthem’s lyrics once reflected the resilience and bravery of American soldiers defending Fort McHenry against British forces. Over time, this phrase has come to symbolize the courage and determination that defined the American spirit until wokism began to take over our nation. Since the 1800s, it has been used in various contexts, including music and literature, to evoke a sense of national respect and honor the bravery of those who have fought for freedom and Biblical justice.

So, what happened?

The principle of “Home of the Brave” has its roots deeply embedded in American history and culture. Over time, it has been embraced as a core value, reflecting the nation’s spirit of bravery in the face of adversity. This principle has been celebrated as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who have fought for freedom and justice. The recent rise of this principle underscores the enduring strength and determination that continue to define the American identity.

The rise of wokism, characterized by heightened awareness and activism around social justice issues, has significantly influenced the cultural landscape in America. This shift has led to redefining what constitutes bravery, moving away from traditional notions of national heroism and valor. Instead, bravery is now often associated with standing up against systemic injustices and advocating for marginalized communities over defending the freedoms of all within the United States of America. While this new form of “bravery” has brought important social issues to the forefront, it has also sparked debates about the balance between preserving our nation’s representative democracy and addressing contemporary social justice opinions. This evolution reflects the dynamic nature of misplaced cultural values and the ongoing dialogue about what it means to be courageous in defending the people, as a whole, of our once great nation.

DEFENDING SELF-JUSTIFIED OPINIONS

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in American discourse, where individuals increasingly defend self-justified opinions rather than focusing on the nation’s collective well-being.

This trend is often fueled by the rise of social media and echo chambers, where people are more likely to encounter and reinforce their own beliefs. As a result, public debates have become more polarized, with less emphasis on finding common ground or addressing the needs of the broader community. This shift has led to a fragmented society, where personal convictions often overshadow the collective good, challenging the unity and cohesion that once defined the American spirit.

In the current cultural climate, individuals who identify with wokism often prioritize defending their opinions and advocating for social justice causes over the traditional collective notion of “We the People.” This shift has led to a focus on addressing systemic injustices and amplifying marginalized voices, sometimes at the expense of broader national security and unity. While this movement is dangerous to the collective masses, ironically, it makes our nation more depraved than the people OF wokism. The emphasis on personal opinions and social activism deludes our nation into the epitome of selfishness - let alone erasing the authentic meaning & definition of bravery and patriotism, validating that our nation is devolving vs. evolving.

A STRONG DEFENSE

Authentic military members who defend the “Home of the Brave” embody the true essence of courage and sacrifice. These individuals selflessly put their lives on the line to protect the freedoms and values that define America. Their unwavering commitment to duty and country is a testament to their bravery and resilience. Whether serving on the front lines or supporting missions from afar, these heroes exemplify the nation’s fading spirit, standing as guardians of liberty and justice for ALL. Their dedication and service ensure that the legacy of bravery continues to inspire and uphold the principles upon which America was founded.

From a biblical perspective, bravery is deeply embedded with indwelling faith and reliance on God’s strength in Yeshua. It is not merely about facing and overcoming fear or danger but about doing what is right in the eyes of God, even in the face of adversity on a battlefield. Biblical bravery is exemplified by figures like David, who confronted Goliath with an unwavering mission to obey God, and Esther, who risked her life to save her people. THIS IS BIBLICAL BRAVERY. This form of courage is an act of obedience to God’s will, demonstrating trust in His guidance and provision. It teaches us that true bravery is rooted in who God is and His method of courage, empowering us to stand firm and act righteously, regardless of the challenges we face.

To all the brave soldiers of the cross of Christ and our beloved nation, we extend our deepest gratitude.

Your unwavering beliefs and dedication to serving both God and country inspire us all. Spiritual warriors, your steadfast commitment to spreading the Gospel and standing firm in your beliefs strengthens the body of Christ and our nation. Military heroes, your selfless sacrifice and courage in defending our freedoms uphold the values upon which our nation was founded. Together, you embody the true essence of bravery, and we are profoundly thankful for your service and devotion. May God bless and protect you always.

Dr. Stephen Phinney

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Identity Politics | Co-writer: Judge Mark T. Boonstra