SUNDAY LESSON, 7/4/21
Independence Day
GOD BLESS AMERICA
Psalm 33:10-12
When the song “God Bless America” was introduced to the public, World War 2 was just beginning in Europe. Americans knew it was just a matter of time when our troops would be called back to war. The song resonated in the hearts of Americans because they had already been fervently praying for God’s blessings on America.
The song “God Bless America” is just as relevant today as it was 83 years ago, and maybe more so. Although America will always have enemies among leaders of foreign countries, sadly, many of our adversaries today come from within our country not without. American politicians, Hollywood celebrities, musicians, athletes, etc. have made disparaging remarks about our nation.
The truth is America is not perfect. Many of our problems are by our own making. I still believe, however, that the United States of America is the greatest nation on earth, and I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else. But as the Psalmist reminds us, God’s blessings upon a nation (including America) are contingent upon that nation’s recognition and acceptance that “God is the Lord” (Psalm 33:12).
Psalm 33:10-12
The Lord foils the plans of the nations;
he thwarts the purposes of the peoples.
11 But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever,
the purposes of his heart through all generations.
12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord,
the people he chose for his inheritance.
2 Chronicles 7:14
14 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 I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.
1 Timothy 2:1-2
I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— 2 for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.
Romans 13:6-7
…the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. 7 Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.
