BLOOD TRANSFUSION, BIRTHDAYS, FLAGS

     What the Almighty has prohibited since the time of Noah is the eating of blood of animals (Gen. 9:1-4; Lev. 17:12-13; Acts 21:25). This prohibition by God can not be used as a basis for forbidding medical practice called blood transfusion, for "eating blood" is obviously different from "transfusing blood."

     And there is nothing wrong with celebrating birthdays if it is done for the glory of God: "Therefore, whether you eat, drink, or whatever you do all to the glory of God." (I Cor. 10:31, New King James Version)

     To regard our birthday as God's blessing and to thank Him during this occasion for the good things that we have receive from Him throughout the year that has passed is never wrong. In fact, The Holy Scriptures teach us to be thankful in everything.

     "In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Jesus Christ for you." (I Thess. 5:18, Ibid.)

     Apostle Paul, however, admonishes Christians to get away from revelries and drunkenness because these are the works of the flesh and those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God (Gal.l: 5:13, Ibid.)

     Concerning the use of flag, verses of the Bible shows the Lord does not prohibit it: "May there be shouts of joy when we hear the news of your victory, flag flying with praise to God for all that he has done for you. May he answer all your prayers!" (Ps. 20:5, Living Bible)

     The Holy Book even proves that God Himself instructed the ancient Israelites to use flags: 

     "... The Lord issued the following instructions to Moses, ... 'Take a census of all the men twenty years old and older who are able to go to war, including their tribe and family. You and Aaron are to direct the project assisted by leaders from each tribe, ...Each tribe of Israel shall have a separate area with its own flag'." (Num. 1:1-2, 52, Ibid.)

     Paying respect to a flag by saluting to it for instance or by standing at attention when it is being raised is but gesture of nationalism. It is a form of respect and not of religious worship or adoration. Respecting something does not necessarily worship them.