A Grateful Nation

A nation born out of the womb of religious liberty has much to thank Almighty God. We can thank Him that man’s tyranny lives oceans away and we are free to worship, vote and treat our fellowman with civility and respect. “With your hand you drove out the nations and planted our fathers; you crushed the peoples and made our fathers flourish” (Psalm 44:2). He is the initiator and sustainer of our nation’s freedom. Without the Lord we lose.

A large lump fills our throats with the memory of men and women whose blood saturated the soil of foreign fields to preserve our freedoms. A nation like ours that encourages free enterprise, free speech, free press and free worship comes with a severe sacrifice. When was the last time you thank the Lord for those on the front lines who risk their lives for your liberty? His blessing remains where gratitude is retained, so thank Him often.

Indeed, it is a country with character that positions itself for God’s blessings.  Therefore, don’t just ask God to bless America, but in addition thank Him for already blessing America. “With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the LORD : “He is good; his love to Israel endures forever” (Ezra 3:11a). A grateful nation gives God the glory for His goodness. Out of our national appreciation the world wonders what God can do for them.

So when the United States of America appreciates Almighty God, we become a shining light from shore to shore, as men and women around the globe take notice of our humble dependence on Him. Jesus described the collective role of God-fearing people, “You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14).

If we extinguish our light by abandoning the faith from where we came, He will raise up other nations to take our place. However, He smiles when He sees a nation acknowledge Him as Lord and Savior. It sets a standard for those who admire our freedoms to see where they originate. Thanksgiving Day is the Lord’s Day to privately and publically give Him the glory and gratitude for His incredible favor and blessings on our nation.

How can I lead our extended family in a sincere prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord? What are some specific freedoms I can thank God for in blessing my country? How can I pray for our President to be an example of a Christian leader the world will follow?

Related Readings: Psalm 102:15; Malachi 1:14; Acts 10:34-36; Revelation 15:4

Transformational Living
What did I learn from the Lord in today’s Bible reading?

How will I respond?