The Priority Of Patriotism
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)
It was the summer of 1776. Delegates had come from thirteen colonies to make a momentous decision. Conditions were troubled in the new world. Something had to be done. They no longer wanted to be governed by England.(RBC) The result was the compilation of 'The Declaration Of Independence". A statement declaring their desire to be a free nation.As we approach July 4th, 2025, I want us to not just think about the freedoms and opportunities we have in this country, but about the spiritual responsibilities we have as American citizens.
In our text the Apostle Paul writes to Timothy, and instructs him about the main responsibility that we have. And that responsibility is to pray. And what are we to pray for? We are to pray for all people. We are to pray for all Americans that they will turn to God and strive to be one nation under God. We are to pray for the leaders of our nation, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives, in all godliness and holiness. And why do we do this? Because this pleases God our savior, who wants all people to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth. God wants us to to have peace, righteousness, and unity.
I know as I write this piece, that people in this nation do not see prayer as a priority. But it is very important that we communicate with our God who gave us this nation, and expects us to abide by His Word and will.
We were a nation who honored God, and in the charter papers, we were devoted to preserving the freedom to worship God, as we chose.
We purposed to propagate the gospel of Jesus Christ. We purposed to be "One Nation Under God." But because we as a nation have gone our own way, and pursued out own delights and desires, we have become more than a mess, we are a train wreck. America has become ill in many areas of it's society.
Some would say, "You are just being negative!" I say, I am being realistic. And if there was ever a time to exercise the priority of patriotism (that being prayer) it is now.
Let's today, consider very seriously, turning to God, and do as 2 Chronicles 7:14 says:
"If my people who are called by My name will humble themselves and (What?) PRAY and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and forgive their sin and heal their land."
This is the Priority Of Patriotism! GP