Our Nation's Future

“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people.” -Proverbs 14:34

Many Christians believe America is a blessed nation. We often attribute this to our founding fathers who laid the foundation for the United States from the truth of Scripture.

Yes, many unbelievers and people who followed their independent desires apart from God have led our nation, but there has always been an underlying spirit of right and wrong based on the Bible.

To me, leadership is the key, which is something that Scripture clearly supports. If the hand of God is being removed from the U.S., then it’s easy to assume it probably started with our leadership moving away from the ideals of Scripture and into independent desires.

Rehoboam was King of Israel, but his epitaph from God read, “He did evil because he had not set his heart on seeking the Lord (2 Chronicles 12:14).” His poor leadership cost Israel much during his time on the throne.

As we think about our great country, one thing is clear: No matter what your opinions are, we are to pray for our leaders and those over us in government.

In this way, you and I have a huge responsibility for what happens. If we don’t obey what we know to be God’s way, we can be partially to blame for the outcome.

“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” -1 Timothy 2:1-4

Ruth Graham, the wife of Billy Graham, once said something that reminds me to do my part for my country. She said, “If God doesn’t punish America, He’ll have to apologize to Sodom and Gomorrah.”

What causes me to tremble is how far we have come from singing “God Bless America” to voting in laws that prohibit God from blessing our nation, all because there is less righteousness in the U.S. each year.

All we can do is pursue righteousness, justice, and peace with the world and the neighbors we live with. Your heart and my heart are all that we control.

The question that could determine our nation’s future is: Am I abandoned to Jesus’ call and purpose with all my heart and soul? If not, why not now?

Can we do our bit part in living out God’s righteousness and praying for Him to meet the sins of our nation with the grace and mercy of His heart?

I strongly believe that our Lord will do His great part if we will do our bit part, which Jesus describes in Matthew 5.

“‘In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.’” -Matthew 5:16

When much is given, much is required. And we’ve got to start standing up for our nation by hitting our knees.