A Nation Under God | Day 10 Freedom Season Devotional

 Scripture: Psalm 33:12
"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people He has chosen for His own inheritance.” (NASB)

Blessing follows nations that acknowledge God’s rule. This is His promise. 

The trouble we see today is that many nations are (or have been at various times throughout history) under ungodly rule, and the United States is no exception. A wicked government does not always accurately represent what is in the hearts of a nation's people. So, when God blesses a nation, it does not necessarily mean that He approves of the decisions its leaders are making. Rather, He is blessing HIS people who are in that nation. 

A few years ago I was driving into the city that I now live in. As I approached the city on the highway, I felt an overwhelming sense of the presence of the Holy Spirit in my car. I was moved to tears. I asked Him what this was about, as it seemed so random. Here is what He said, “I love this city. Do you know why I love cities, counties, states and nations?” I replied, “No.” He answered, “It’s because I love the people there.” 

God’s love for people (both those who know Him and those who don’t know Him yet) is deep and real. His heart is moved toward a nation or people group by the depth of their pursuit of His Presence. He has always had and will always have a remnant. As long as His people continue to cry out on behalf of their nation, He will be moved toward them. 

That doesn’t mean He will bless or condone wicked leadership. His word is very clear on that. This is why it is so important for us, as responsible citizens, to educate ourselves on important issues at the city, county, state and national level. It is important for us to vet our candidates and know who they are and what they are about before casting our vote. It is important that we pay attention to what laws they are submitting and passing and hold their feet to the fire when they support laws that do not reflect our values. 

As we reflect on our national history during this Freedom Season, we must pray regularly for our leaders and our fellow citizens to hear His voice in these matters - for them to submit to God’s authority and to walk in truth and integrity. 

Reflection: How can you pray more intentionally for your nation, state, county and city? 

Prayer: Jesus, be Lord over our nation. Raise up leaders who follow Your ways. Show me how to pray Your heart for our leaders and my fellow Americans. Let healing come to our nation and return us to Your original intent as a people. Amen.