Monday Morning Encouragement -- A Blessed Nation

 

Source: Heartlight.org


"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord."


In 1954, President Dwight Eisenhower said, "The purpose of a devout and united people was set forth in the pages of the Bible. . .(1) to live in freedom (2) to work in a prosperous land and (3) to obey the commandments of God."


There's no question that for 246 years America has enjoyed the blessings of God. We have enjoyed freedoms given to us by God, not by the government. We have prospered in a land rich in natural resources and beauty, to which we owe thanks to our Creator. But are we a country who obeys the commandments of God? 


I, for one, don't think so. 


Our founding fathers looked to God for wisdom and guidance, and didn't hesitate to honor Him, which is the first and foremost commandment given. 


Read this prayer by George Washington:


"Almighty God: We make our earnest prayer that Thou wilt keep the United States in Thy holy protection; that thou wilt incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government, and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow-citizens of the United States at large. And finally that Thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed religion without a humble imitation of whose example in these things we can never hope to be a happy nation. Grant our supplication, we beseech Thee, through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen."


Generally speaking, I don't see the "humility and [peaceful] temper of mind" demonstrated by our Lord Jesus Christ. I see glimpses of it. I believe it's still there among some leaders in our nation. But as a whole? No. I see pride and arrogance. 


And so today while many citizens are enjoying BBQ's and fireworks -- and there's certainly nothing wrong with that -- I want us to reflect on what is happening in our country right now and ask ourselves this question:


Are we a nation whose God is the Lord of the Bible?


No matter what, it's never too late to humble ourselves before God, and ask Him to forgive our sins and change our National heart. 


Today's music video If My People by Terry Blackwood and the Imperials is based on 2 Chronicles 7:14: "if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land." 


I find so much encouragement and hope in this song. I hope you will, too. 






16 comments

  1. I agree with you. I heard a radio program last week with a man talking about the values of our founding fathers and telling some stories of faith filled men and what they did during the revolution. It makes me so sad to see what's happening today.

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    1. It is sad, Mari, however we are not without hope. God is still God. We know that and must boldly proclaim it to a world full of people who have no understanding. God bless you, my friend. xo

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  2. It is sad to see what is happening in our country. USA was always a place of freedom, prosperity and a good life. Now it is getting to be so violent. Today I just heard about a mass shooting for a parade in a town near us. Innocent people watching the 4th of July parade with their families and 10 people were shot 5 killed. We cannot even celebrate our country's freedom and be with our families at a very traditional part of the 4th of July celebrations. We need more people of faith in charge of our government. Sorry to go on. Hoping and praying for those families that were affected today. xoxo Kris

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    1. Kris, you never have to apologize for sharing what's on your heart and mind here. I agree with everything you wrote. I'm joining you in your prayers. xo

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  3. We need an awakening like the one that happened when George Whitefield, Jonathon Edwards and others boldly preached the Gospel and need for repentance and revival in the Colonies just before Independence in 1776! And the 2nd great awakening in the 1790's! Praying God has mercy on our country...

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  4. Thank you. I need encouragement about the hope for our country.

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    1. It's so easy to feel discouraged, Sandi. However, scripture is clear that God has a plan, and He will accomplish it. xo

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  5. I too agree.... so many sad things happening in this country.. I think mostly in the government figures that are supposed to be "leading" us... but to where? definitely not to God. The song is beautiful. xoxo Marilyn

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    1. You're right, Marilyn. We know from the Books of 1st and 2nd Kings that it was the leaders -- the Kings -- who either lifted up the Lord to the people, or brought Him down, with their choices. This reminds me to pray for our leaders. xo

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  6. President Washington's prayer echoes Micah 6:8, Do justice, Love mercy, Walk humbly with God.

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  7. I also agree with you. How a nation can be so divided and still stand is beyond me. I posted the same verse in II Chronicles on FB this week. God is the only way the USA will survive as a nation.
    Blessings,
    Betsy

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  8. I believe that is true in all nations that we say serve God. It is often the case that nations have a Christian name but no life with Him.

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  9. As I see people waking up politically, I am praying they'll wake up spiritually. People are awake to evil, and hopefully they'll see the need to be on God's side of things.

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Your comments bring me joy! Thanks for stopping by.