One Nation, Under God
READ: Psalm 2
Although the history of America is pretty short, the United States is clearly a dominant nation in the world. Our success in gaining independence from England, survival of a civil war, our power in World Wars 1 and 2, our fight against terror today, our standard of living and our democratic government are a testament to our strength and resolve as a nation.
But as children of God, we serve a higher authority, one whose history is eternal and whose power is greater than any nation in the world. As sinners, we can be thankful that Jesus bore the wrath of God in our place for all of our rebellious sin. Through faith, God builds his Body, the church, in his believers. Therefore we needn’t fear his wrath, because he promises to bless all who take refuge in him. (verse 12).
And so we serve the LORD, and share the need for salvation because of sin as well as his peace that is beyond understanding through faith in Jesus with all those around us. To God be the glory for our great nation, but more so, for establishing an even greater and everlasting kingdom in the hearts of believers.
THINGS TO THINK ABOUT: Why does God speak of his wrath in his Word? How would the world be different if its rulers and kings feared and loved God? The U.S. has “In God We Trust” on all of its money – how well does America abide by that statement?
THINGS TO PRAY ABOUT: Pray for our elected leaders. Thank God for living in a country in which we can worship Him in safety and speak about Him plainly and boldly without much fear of government persecution. Pray that the kingdom of God continues to grow as we diligently share it with those around us.