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Freedom In Jeopardy Series
Contributed by Dr. Lewis W. Gregory on Jun 30, 2022 (message contributor)
Summary: The United States of America began on a firm foundation. What does that mean for us today? God has given us clear instructions.
THE FOUNDATION: The United States of America began on a firm foundation. “And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.” So said the leaders who signed the Declaration of Independence at the founding of this great country on July 4, 1776.
TODAY: What does that mean for us today? God has given us clear instructions. “Righteousness exalts a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:34). In other words, do right by God and He will do right by you. Honor the Lord God Almighty. Stay true to His standard of Righteousness—the Word of God. Rely upon the source of righteousness—the Lord Jesus Christ. Adhere to the laws of the land—especially the foundational documents of our country, such as the United States Constitution. It is absolutely imperative that we have leaders who most closely uphold these standards. Therefore, we must select wise, responsible, competent leaders.
THE NEED FOR LAW AND ORDER: God knew that our evil human nature would result in selfish, rebellious, destructive behavior. Therefore, God established the governmental system of authorities, laws, etc., as a means of ensuring that society could function decently and in order. “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God” (Romans 13:1).
Our founders wrote the US Constitution for that same reason. America is a nation of laws in order that we might be governed by the rule of law. As a result we can enjoy the peace and prosperity that comes through law and order. But this is only possible if we adhere to the constitutional guidelines and enforce the laws of our country. Our citizens must respect and obey the laws, so that everyone's rights and privileges will be protected and preserved.
THE DANGER OF LAWLESSNESS: However, our country is in grave danger of removing the “ancient landmarks” such as the US Constitution, our Government authorities, Police, Military, etc. (Proverbs 22:28). If we do not have a uniform standard of government that is just and equitable, then this great country with which we have been blessed will deteriorate, crumble and collapse. Without law and order we have lawlessness, chaos and violence. And that is exactly what is beginning to happen.
A HEALTHY REMINDER: Times of crisis are always a healthy reminder of our need of God. There is nothing is too hard for Him! God has provided us with a clear formula for restoration, but we must follow His instructions explicitly. “If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14). God is merciful and compassionate. He is just and righteous. When we respond to God with our whole heart, He will respond to us.
REPENT AND BE RESTORED: A broken and contrite heart of true repentance will touch the heart of Father God. What is the Father’s heart? “As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live” (Ezekiel 33:11 NIV). Where sin abounds, grace does much more abound (Romans 5:20). God prefers to restore, rather than to destroy. He desires that we choose life, so that we might truly live! So, let us receive God’s mercy and grace to help in our time of need. Therefore, repent and humble yourself before the Lord; call upon the name of the Lord, so that He might hear from Heaven and heal our country.
A CALL TO PRAYER: I urge you to pray in accordance with God’s Word in order that God’s will might be done on Earth as it is in Heaven. Man’s words will all fade away, but the Word of the Lord shall stand forever! So, pray that the Word of the Lord might have free course, and that God will be glorified (2 Thessalonians 3:1). And may God have mercy on us all!
A PRAYER FOR AMERICA: "Dear God Almighty, thank you for all the freedoms, privileges and opportunities you have bestowed upon the United States of America. In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord, I beseech you to rule and overrule in the affairs of men, and grant us leaders of character, conviction, and commitment! Cause the citizens of this country to respect and obey the laws of the land in order that we might live in a peaceful, prosperous society."
Copyright©2016 Dr. Lewis Gregory
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