Failure is not the absence of falling short but the lack of willingness to learn from one's mistakes.
There has never been a time in our history when this nation found success by devaluing its citizens or abusing its power on the world stage. The United States of America cannot be the leader of the free world if it has not learned one basic lesson.
Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18 NLT)
Who would ever though I would advocate seeking out money? Yes, the love of it paves the path to destruction. Yet, it is emblazoned with such great and hopeful words: In God We Trust. The wisdom of a people who were fighting to set this nation free from the curse of slavery, but were not quite brave enough to ensure there was liberty and justice for all, speaks to us. Fellow Americans, may we open our eyes and not be felled by a similar stumbling block. Serving God and walking in love will bring us all peace.
Showing posts with label pray for USA. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pray for USA. Show all posts
Monday, February 27, 2017
Friday, January 27, 2017
Pride Before the Fall
Pride of face is obnoxious; pride of race is vulgar; but the worst pride is the pride of grace.
David Guzic, Blue Letter Bible Study Guide for Deuteronomy 8
Beauty that is only skin deep is pointless. Please continue to find the next and biggest way to be kind to the person standing next to you and the stranger across the ocean.
God decided what race each and every one of us would be. It is insanity to think that he would make one race to be inherently better or more worthy of his blessings.
For God does not show favoritism.
(Romans 2:11 NIV)
Speaking of blessings. A person working hard is a wonderful sight, indeed. Seeing a brilliant man or woman doing what has never been done before surely sets the heart aflutter. The drive to never give up or give in is something we should want others to see in us. But never fail to remember one important point. Americans, therefore America by extension, possess the power and ability to succeed because The LORD has allowed it. He extends us grace, giving us the lovely gifts we can never deserve, because he is love.
You better check yo self before you wreck yo self
Ice Cube, "Check Yo Self"
Can you see the absolute truth in these straightforward words? Pride will be the downfall of so many if wisdom does not find a good place to grow in our land. So, let us attribute the greatness to God and be grateful for all that he has shared with us.
David Guzic, Blue Letter Bible Study Guide for Deuteronomy 8
Beauty that is only skin deep is pointless. Please continue to find the next and biggest way to be kind to the person standing next to you and the stranger across the ocean.
God decided what race each and every one of us would be. It is insanity to think that he would make one race to be inherently better or more worthy of his blessings.
For God does not show favoritism.
(Romans 2:11 NIV)
Speaking of blessings. A person working hard is a wonderful sight, indeed. Seeing a brilliant man or woman doing what has never been done before surely sets the heart aflutter. The drive to never give up or give in is something we should want others to see in us. But never fail to remember one important point. Americans, therefore America by extension, possess the power and ability to succeed because The LORD has allowed it. He extends us grace, giving us the lovely gifts we can never deserve, because he is love.
You better check yo self before you wreck yo self
Ice Cube, "Check Yo Self"
Can you see the absolute truth in these straightforward words? Pride will be the downfall of so many if wisdom does not find a good place to grow in our land. So, let us attribute the greatness to God and be grateful for all that he has shared with us.
Saturday, January 21, 2017
A Greater New Age Philosophy
...Don’t you see, you planned evil against me but God used those same plans for my good, as you see all around you right now—life for many people.
(Genesis 50:20 MSG)
The love of money, the desire for status, and the constant search for affirmation in all the wrong places are a lethal trio. But for God. He always takes what was meant for evil and makes it good, very good. The Lord turns every unpleasant, disturbing, and painful thing on its ear.
So America, welcome in a new age of light. It is time to love all of humankind. We will know greatness comes when one uses her or his talents to pull someone else out of a desolate pit. Shouts of joy rise toward heaven. The piercing doubt is at an end. God loves us, warts and all, without ceasing.
Can I get a Hallelujah and Amen?
(Genesis 50:20 MSG)
The love of money, the desire for status, and the constant search for affirmation in all the wrong places are a lethal trio. But for God. He always takes what was meant for evil and makes it good, very good. The Lord turns every unpleasant, disturbing, and painful thing on its ear.
So America, welcome in a new age of light. It is time to love all of humankind. We will know greatness comes when one uses her or his talents to pull someone else out of a desolate pit. Shouts of joy rise toward heaven. The piercing doubt is at an end. God loves us, warts and all, without ceasing.
Can I get a Hallelujah and Amen?
Saturday, January 14, 2017
Loose Lips Sink Great Nations
4 And a tiny rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot wants it to go, even though the winds are strong.
5 So also the tongue is a small thing, but what enormous damage it can do. A great forest can be set on fire by one tiny spark.
(James 3:4-5 TLB)
The time is now. Let us hold our leaders more accountable. Hard truths can be difficult to hear, but wisdom and insight liberate minds. Our country is dealing with very difficult issues like terrorism, racial inequality, concerns about the economy, the violence running rampant in our streets, and the need for affordable healthcare. America should welcome leaders who do not mince their words. With due diligence, they help us see where we will have to tighten our belts in order to get everyone through the storm.
The future well-being of this nation is threatened by our supposed representatives who do understand that death and life are in the power of the tongue. America is already a tinderbox. It seems like everyone is angry or frustrated about some issue or another. One ill-conceived word can spark an outburst, often involving unspeakable acts of violence. This fallout is almost always preventable. Our elected officials must exhibit self-restraint and chose their words very carefully, at all times. They do not have to be perfect, but our leaders must be held to a higher standard. What they chose to speak about should not be foul winds against which we have to push.
Fellow Americans, the responsibility is ours because we have the numbers to decide which way the rudder will turn. In what direction do you want our nation to go? This question is not to be answered too quickly or on a superficial level. Your answer will reverberate throughout many generations and affect a great number of people. I choose to put out the fires of hate and to set sail for the land of liberty and justice for all.
5 So also the tongue is a small thing, but what enormous damage it can do. A great forest can be set on fire by one tiny spark.
(James 3:4-5 TLB)
The time is now. Let us hold our leaders more accountable. Hard truths can be difficult to hear, but wisdom and insight liberate minds. Our country is dealing with very difficult issues like terrorism, racial inequality, concerns about the economy, the violence running rampant in our streets, and the need for affordable healthcare. America should welcome leaders who do not mince their words. With due diligence, they help us see where we will have to tighten our belts in order to get everyone through the storm.
The future well-being of this nation is threatened by our supposed representatives who do understand that death and life are in the power of the tongue. America is already a tinderbox. It seems like everyone is angry or frustrated about some issue or another. One ill-conceived word can spark an outburst, often involving unspeakable acts of violence. This fallout is almost always preventable. Our elected officials must exhibit self-restraint and chose their words very carefully, at all times. They do not have to be perfect, but our leaders must be held to a higher standard. What they chose to speak about should not be foul winds against which we have to push.
Fellow Americans, the responsibility is ours because we have the numbers to decide which way the rudder will turn. In what direction do you want our nation to go? This question is not to be answered too quickly or on a superficial level. Your answer will reverberate throughout many generations and affect a great number of people. I choose to put out the fires of hate and to set sail for the land of liberty and justice for all.
Saturday, October 15, 2016
Leave No Person Behind
The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the LORD; he turns it wherever he will. (Proverbs 21:1 ESV)
Americans do not live in a nation where a king can issue commands and edicts without any checks and balances. We should be praised for wanting to create a democracy which at its best can allow every citizen to have a voice. Yet, a system has been set up where each one of us has surrogates in the form of politicians. Voices often can get muffled as cries for relief and consideration go up the chain of command, especially if a group is small in number or has limited political/economic clout. But there is a way to avoid this pitfall.
The President of the United States of America is our "king" for all intents and purposes. It is this person's responsibility not to rule us with an iron rod but to be our standard bearer. The POTUS must exhibit integrity which is defined as "the quality of being honest and fair". This is what God talks about in the Bible from beginning to end. It would be a wonderful thing if Americans had a leader whose heart was in His hand. This public servant would be turned towards conduct that manifests the highest principle. Find a way to extend a loving and dependable hand in every situation.
It pleases God to never forget about the needs of one person on this earth. He exhibits wisdom and grace by always choosing a course of action that balances the needs of anyone and everyone. We can demand that from ourselves and the POTUS.
Americans do not live in a nation where a king can issue commands and edicts without any checks and balances. We should be praised for wanting to create a democracy which at its best can allow every citizen to have a voice. Yet, a system has been set up where each one of us has surrogates in the form of politicians. Voices often can get muffled as cries for relief and consideration go up the chain of command, especially if a group is small in number or has limited political/economic clout. But there is a way to avoid this pitfall.
The President of the United States of America is our "king" for all intents and purposes. It is this person's responsibility not to rule us with an iron rod but to be our standard bearer. The POTUS must exhibit integrity which is defined as "the quality of being honest and fair". This is what God talks about in the Bible from beginning to end. It would be a wonderful thing if Americans had a leader whose heart was in His hand. This public servant would be turned towards conduct that manifests the highest principle. Find a way to extend a loving and dependable hand in every situation.
It pleases God to never forget about the needs of one person on this earth. He exhibits wisdom and grace by always choosing a course of action that balances the needs of anyone and everyone. We can demand that from ourselves and the POTUS.
Tuesday, August 30, 2016
The State Inspired by the Church
The separation of Church and State is a good thing. Everyone’s religious freedom would be threatened if the line between Church and State was blurred forcibly. What one chooses to believe can never be regulated. More importantly, it takes study and constant meditation to interpret the Word of God. Attempting to transform God's wise counsel into law is like trying to stay upright on a dangerous and slippery slope. However, the State can be inspired by the Church which delights in the promise of growing in strength and beauty as it actively seeks ways to spread Love around the world.
"God is love. Therefore love. Without distinction, without calculation, without procrastination, love." (Henry Drummond)
"God is love. Therefore love. Without distinction, without calculation, without procrastination, love." (Henry Drummond)
Sunday, August 14, 2016
Be United
..."The people are united, and they all speak the same language. After this, nothing they set out to do will be impossible for them! (Genesis 11:6)
This nation seems be The United States of America in name only. The rich diversity found in this country should be our strength not our downfall. A melting pot is exactly what we need. Everyone can throw in an opinion, a unique point of view, or an ingenious idea about how to better conduct the affairs of this country. We can agree to disagree and still make sure our words convey a willingness to maintain an environment of mutual respect. Then, we would be using a common language which is understood by and pleasant to all. Nothing is impossible when a united, motivated, and imaginative group of people work together to grow a nation.
This nation seems be The United States of America in name only. The rich diversity found in this country should be our strength not our downfall. A melting pot is exactly what we need. Everyone can throw in an opinion, a unique point of view, or an ingenious idea about how to better conduct the affairs of this country. We can agree to disagree and still make sure our words convey a willingness to maintain an environment of mutual respect. Then, we would be using a common language which is understood by and pleasant to all. Nothing is impossible when a united, motivated, and imaginative group of people work together to grow a nation.
Sunday, July 31, 2016
Grow in Maturity
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. 3 This is good,
and pleases God our Savior, 4 who wants all people to
be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. (1
Timothy 1:1-4)
Friday, July 29, 2016
Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness
‘May the Lord bless you
and protect you.
May the Lord smile on you
and be gracious to you.
May the Lord show you his favor
and give you his peace.’
and protect you.
May the Lord smile on you
and be gracious to you.
May the Lord show you his favor
and give you his peace.’
(Numbers 6:24-26 NLT)
God rains His blessings
down upon the world every single day.
But wouldn’t it be wonderful to see our nation walk in the fullness
of this great blessing. We need protection
from extremely vicious enemies, within and without our borders. Who knows what goodness might show up when a
powerful and gracious God smiles upon us, giving us gifts we surely do not
deserve? Wisdom about how to create more
jobs and a thriving economy with less national debt is just one of the things on my collective
wish list. Doors of opportunity open
when one receives favor from God.
Imagine the peace this country could have if each one of us took the
opportunity to have our hearts be filled with love.
Thursday, July 28, 2016
Be Called by His Name
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.
(2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV)
Other nations proudly say they are Muslim. Why can’t the US be an openly Christian nation? This nation would not stop being a democracy. God is all about free will. No citizen would lose the freedom to choose her or his own path. The separation of Church and State would remain. It would just be a matter of this nation saying we collectively follow the good example of Jesus who conducted all of His business with integrity, kindness, and wisdom.
Our great land needs a healing. The ills ailing this country are great: rampant violence and lawlessness, systemic racism and sexism, youth left to their own devices, corruption at all levels in government, frequent gun violence, acts of terrorism, breakdown of the family structure, lack of tolerance for those considered “different”… The list is long and painful. America must humble itself and admit it has lost its way.
Do not fall into the trap of thinking this will turn into the USA following an unforgiving god who is all about hellfire and brimstone. There cannot be finger pointing and talk of who is the bigger sinner because we all fall short in some way. It is about the one and only God, through Jesus’ example, being a perfect and loving leader. Our nation would thrive under such benign guidance.
Let’s try something different by praying to God for advice on how to conduct our national business with more wisdom. It is okay if you do want to participate, but keep your eyes open so that you can be witness to the great blessings which surely will come.
(2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV)
Other nations proudly say they are Muslim. Why can’t the US be an openly Christian nation? This nation would not stop being a democracy. God is all about free will. No citizen would lose the freedom to choose her or his own path. The separation of Church and State would remain. It would just be a matter of this nation saying we collectively follow the good example of Jesus who conducted all of His business with integrity, kindness, and wisdom.
Our great land needs a healing. The ills ailing this country are great: rampant violence and lawlessness, systemic racism and sexism, youth left to their own devices, corruption at all levels in government, frequent gun violence, acts of terrorism, breakdown of the family structure, lack of tolerance for those considered “different”… The list is long and painful. America must humble itself and admit it has lost its way.
Do not fall into the trap of thinking this will turn into the USA following an unforgiving god who is all about hellfire and brimstone. There cannot be finger pointing and talk of who is the bigger sinner because we all fall short in some way. It is about the one and only God, through Jesus’ example, being a perfect and loving leader. Our nation would thrive under such benign guidance.
Let’s try something different by praying to God for advice on how to conduct our national business with more wisdom. It is okay if you do want to participate, but keep your eyes open so that you can be witness to the great blessings which surely will come.
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
Seek God and Prosper
Now
the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.
(2 Corinthians 3:17 NKJV)
Our Pledge of Allegiance encourages us to support the
United States of America. It talks of an
indivisible nation which provides liberty and justice for all. The only way to
reach this ideal is to be one nation under God.
When the Spirit of the Lord dwells inside each one of us, every citizen
will find the freedom to prosper. Our
actions, thoughts, and desires will reflect His goodness. We will all fight to ensure there is always
liberty and justice for all.
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