Is War Acceptable?

We are approaching Memorial Day Weekend in the USA. Many see it as a sign that the summer is officially beginning. Its meaning is much deeper and more personal. It is a day to remember those serving in the military that paid the ultimate price... they never came home. We have a number of holidays to remember the men and women that serve our nation through the military. Some feel that we shouldn’t go to war and may even go so far as to believe that fighting is wrong, after all one of the Ten Commandments says that we should not kill, right? Wrong! It says that we should not murder. What is the difference? Murder is a premeditated intent to harm another for personal gain. When a life is taken protecting ourselves or others, it is not murder. I will admit that there are some wars that are wrong... those that seek to destroy other nations so that they may grow larger and stronger. This would likely fall under murder and greed. There are wars against people because of hate. Again, this is not acceptable. There are other reasons that would be unacceptable too. A country has the right to go to war to protect its own citizens. If a country threatens another nation and has shown resolve to carry it out, that nation can go to war preemptively to defend itself. Romans even says that the ‘government doesn’t carry the sword for nothing’ meaning that it has the right to take life to maintain order. Our first allegiance must be to God... no other option comes close. Then I believe we serve our families, and then our nation (assuming the nation isn’t operating contrary to God). Very few countries can have order and peace if have no way to defend themselves. Some nations depend on others to defend them. Some are able to defend themselves. Without protection, eventually someone will overtake that nation. The nation (and those under its protection) that has a strong military, doesn’t desire to conquor the world, and continues to have the latest technology and equipment will likely enjoy the greatest peace. Those that serve in their military to protect that nation deserve great respect. This is why we honor those that died while serving. We owe them a debt of gratitude. Take time to remember the price of freedom. Father, thank You for the men and women that have served to protect us over the years. Watch over those that have lost loved ones. Amen