The modern Western world continues to live under a dangerous illusion about how to build and sustain strong, prosperous nations. There is an adage that says, “The river that forgets its source will dry up.” Many Western nations today either have forgotten the historical foundations upon which they were built or have allowed spiritual blindness to cloud their understanding of their origins.
The founders of America left Britain in search of greater freedom to worship and serve God according to their convictions. At the center of human existence is the desire to worship. Every person ultimately worships something regarded as a god, but there is a vast difference between false gods and the true and living God, and His Son, Jesus Christ.
Although the struggle in the world is fundamentally spiritual, its effects are visible in every area of human life, affecting both believers and unbelievers alike. The conflict between light and darkness continues daily. One may wonder why lies, wickedness, and moral corruption often seem to dominate society, while dishonesty appears to be rewarded with wealth and influence. There is only one answer – “The god of this age [Satan] has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” (2 Corinthians 4:4)
The founders of America were sincere in their vision. They sought to build an inclusive society rooted in Christian values and the principles of God’s kingdom. They prepared men and women as missionaries to other parts of the world and welcomed people from different nations to their shores, hoping to share their culture, faith, and ideals.
Their convictions were evident even in their national identity. The phrase “In God We Trust” was inscribed on their currency. Some early state constitutions required public representatives to profess the Christian faith. They believed they were building a godly nation founded upon biblical principles.
However, as Scripture warns, “Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Jesus Himself told His disciples, “I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore, be as wise as serpents and as innocent as doves” (Matthew 10:16).
God expects His people to exercise wisdom and discernment in fulfilling their mission on earth. One of the weaknesses in America’s immigration and integration policies, according to this perspective, was the failure to ensure that newcomers were properly assimilated into the nation’s foundational values and culture. The Apostle Peter warned believers: “Beware lest you also fall from your own steadfastness, being led away with the error of the wicked” (2 Peter 3:17).
Many believe this gradual departure from foundational values has contributed to the moral and cultural struggles now facing Western societies. Challenges such as terrorism, family breakdown, violence, child abuse, and social unrest have become widespread concerns.
Across parts of Europe, Islamic groups have increasingly advocated for the adoption of Sharia law, raising concerns among many citizens about cultural identity and national cohesion. Britain, once a leading force in spreading Christianity and Western civilization around the world, now faces significant cultural and religious transformation.
In my 2012 book, Saving America: The War We Can’t Ignore, I discussed several strategies that adversarial groups allegedly use to influence and reshape Western societies. Among them are:
- Legal Immigration and Demographic Expansion:
Encouraging migration into Western nations, establishing businesses, and building large families while native populations decline due to changing cultural values and reduced birth rates. No thanks to the doctrine of no marriage, and if at all, none, one, or two kids. The idea of same sex marriage, which ends up in adoption, became popular. The increase in population has tilted towards people of different cultures. - Influence in Educational Institutions:
Funding academic programs and institutions that promote ideologies hostile to traditional Western and Christian values, thereby influencing younger generations. Organizations opposed to Western cultures have procured chairs and foundations in Western nations’ colleges and successfully used the opportunities to bring in teachers into those institutions who would help to indoctrinate the students on anti-Western and anti-Christian cultures. - Cultural and Political Assimilation:
Using marriage, political activism, and social inclusion policies to gain deeper influence within Western societies. - Political Participation and Government Influence:
Seeking representation and influence within government systems, where population numbers and organized voting blocs often shape politics. The concern is that, from current experiences in many European nations, including Britain, if such groups gain dominant control of governance, there is a risk that they would adopt authoritarian policies and marginalize or persecute those who do not share their cultural values, beliefs, or way of life.
Many citizens believe these developments have significantly weakened the moral and cultural foundations of the West. The situation in parts of Europe suggests that some traditional values and identities are rapidly fading. The United States, many argue, is not exempt from these pressures.
From this perspective, the emergence of Donald Trump in 2016 and again in 2024 is viewed by people in different circles as a turning point for a nation they believe was heading toward serious decline. Whether admired or criticized, many see his leadership as an attempt to restore national identity, border control, and traditional values.
Ultimately, however, the future of nations rests not in political leaders alone, but in God. Human systems may rise and fall, but God remains sovereign over the affairs of men. In the end, He alone has the final say. Thankful for another Memorial Day in America, as we remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice to defend our nation and us.
Michael Jolayemi is the Author of:
- Saving America: The war we can’t ignore
- Sheltered Through the Storm: The Travails and Ultimate Triumph of the Church
- The Mysteries of God, the Origin We Don’t Know, the Eternity We Should Believe
- Watch out for his next book – Defying Death – How to Live and Not Die
