Two developments in the case of a Scripture verse on the shirts of Parkersburg, WV wrestling team members have been confirmed.

First, the verse, Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me,” that was in the gym, and on the wrestling website, has been painted over, according to a recent article.

But, thankfully, according to local attorney Bill Merriman, the wrestlers will be allowed to continue wearing their t-shirts with the verse printed on the back. Merriman told conservative commentator Todd Starnes:

“It’s not part of the official uniform…If a student athlete doesn’t want to wear that shirt, they don’t have to. It’s not a requirement…The First Amendment swings both ways.”

Merriman also said he would be willing to sue if the school or Board of Education tried to keep the students from wearing the shirts. Such a move would be an obvious affront to the right of free speech and religious freedom considering the school doesn’t in any way fund the shirts; they are solely funded and offered by parents and students choose freely to wear them.

It’s good news to hear the wrestlers can continue wearing the shirts. But it is naive to think this is the end. We must be vigilant and prepared to defend our rights of free speech and religious freedom or they will be taken away.