“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 will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin
and will heal their land.”
(II Chronicles 7:14)
This Sunday is July 4th – Independence Day! It was 234 years ago that our forefathers declared their independence from the king of England by signing the Declaration of Independence. Today many in the public arena are claiming that America is a secular nation. But there is no question that America was founded upon truths from God’s Word and our Christian faith.
One of the most famous quotes of the American Revolution is by Patrick Henry…
- I know not what others may choose but, as for me, give me liberty or give me death.
Patrick Henry went on and served as the first governor of Virginia. Did you know that he was also an outspoken Christian? Here are a few more quotes from Patrick Henry…
- It can not be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians, not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ!
- I have disposed of all my property to my family. There is one thing more I wish I could give to them, and that is the Christian religion. If they had that and I had not given them one cent, they would be rich. If they have not that, and I had given them the world, they would be poor.”
- The Bible is worth all the other books which have ever been printed.
Because of our Christian foundation, God has indeed blessed America over the past two centuries. Unfortunately, our great nation has wandered far from its foundation. Men have forgotten God. Secularism has replaced Christianity as the “religion” of the people. Is there any hope for America? What would it take for God to once again bless America?
I believe there is hope. Hope is found in II Chronicles 7:14, where we discover four conditions necessary for God to “heal our land” and bless our country once again. We must (1) humble ourselves before God, (2) pray to the God of heaven, (3) seek God’s face, and (4) repent of our sin.
I further believe America is at a crossroads. We are either headed for God’s judgment or for a great revival. Which will it be? I pray for revival.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for this great country in which we live
and for your abundant blessings.
We confess that America has wandered from its faith in you.
May Your Holy Spirit pour down revival on our country?
May God bless America again!
In Jesus’ name, Amen!