Happy Birthday America!

             Today is the birthday of our nation.  247 years ago, a group of men, believing they were in the right, pledged their “lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor” as they declared that the 13 colonies were free and independent of the rule of Great Britain.  In doing so, they appealed to the “Supreme Judge of the World” for the approval of the righteousness of their actions. 

            I’m not sure that God approved of their actions since Romans 13:1 makes it clear that all governments, including the British King, were established by Him.  I do know that we have been blessed with a freedom and form of government unlike any before or since, and only God could create such a bold new form of government.

            Today, we are a divided nation, much as we were in 1860 when Abraham Lincoln was elected President.  Then the primary issue was slavery; today, the main issues of division concern sexual desires and orientation.  However, perhaps the biggest problem both in 1860 and now is that we have left God out of the picture.  In both eras, then and now, we have failed to recognize the most basic human value, that all people are created in the image of God.  We have lost respect for others, and we have ceased to listen, to discuss our differences, and most importantly, to look to God for answers and guidance.

            I am an American and I am both proud and thankful to be one.  However, I am first and foremost a Christian.  My ultimate home or country is not of this world, but while I remain here, my allegiance is to God first and to my country and others second. 

            As Christians, we can’t shy away from the difficult discussions that our country is facing – many of which are completely contrary to God’s Word.  At the same time, we must remember that our job is not to save a nation but rather to tell people about the love of Jesus.  We can’t do that while shouting and arguing.  We must learn to speak the Truth in love.

            So, as Christians, how do we face the divisive times in which we find ourselves?

            First, and foremost, we need to pray.  Pray for lost souls who are wandering in darkness.  Pray for government leaders who have wandered away, or maybe never knew, God.  Pray for us, that we may be wise citizens but even bolder Christians. Pray that God will raise new leaders who are not ashamed of the Gospel and its Truth.

            Next, we need to remember.  Remember that God ordains all governments (Romans 13:1), not just the ones that we like. Remember that God’s Word is still the only absolute Truth!  Remember that we are called to speak the Truth in love.

            Right now, the future of America looks bleak, just as I’m sure it did in 1860.  As Abraham Lincoln once said, quoting Scripture, “A house divided against itself cannot stand” (1858 speech, quoting Luke 11:17).  America may not survive to see its 250th birthday three years from now, but as the old hymn says: “I know who holds the future and I know who holds my hand” (I Don’t Know About Tomorrow by Ira F. Stanphill).

            My faith is not in any nation or government.  My faith is in Jesus Christ!  At just the right time, He will make all things new! 

Philippians 3: 20 – 21

Revelation 21: 5

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