Marie’s daily verse: 2 Corinthians 3:17 NLT: 

For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

DAILY DEVOTION, July 4, 2024

Text: 2 Chronicles 7:13 – 15 (NKJV) When I shut up heaven, and there is no rain, or command the locusts to devour the land, or send pestilence among My people, 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 will forgive their sin and heal their land. Now My eyes will be open and My ears attentive to prayer made in this place.    

Though addressed initially to Israel, this passage holds profound relevance for us who bear the name of Christ, our Lord and Savior. It is a testament to the fact that God speaks to His people in every age, offering timeless wisdom and guidance. 

The passage follows Solomon’s long prayer during the temple’s dedication. In Chapter 6, we read of Solomon kneeling before the people with his hands stretched toward heaven as he prays. It is a prayer with many petitions, mostly asking God to be gracious and forgiving. When Solomon finished praying, fire came down from heaven, and the presence of God was so overwhelming that the people fell to their faces and worshipped God. They thanked God and cried, “The Lord is good; His love endures forever” (2 Chron. 7:3).

It reminds us on this Independence Day that our nation, which once dared to believe that God’s hand guided the founding of the United States of America, is slowly but steadily moving away from God. We once believed we were one nation under God, but many are now backing away from that position. Some have wondered if the present riots and unrest are God’s judgment. I can’t speak with authority on that issue, but I, too, have wondered. What is the solution for America?

The strength and security of the United States lie in the strength of its churches. As our nation grows increasingly secular, it’s crucial to reflect on who is to blame. While atheists, agnostics, and secular humanists may be part of the issue, we must also acknowledge the role of our churches. When American churches are faithful, they have the power to influence the culture around us. For instance, the Declaration of Independence authors were predominantly Christians. America’s path to redemption lies in the leadership of its churches. As a small church in a small town, let us resolve to be faithful, influencing the community where God has planted us.

Prayer: Father, I am grateful for the freedom that still reigns in my country. I am committed to doing my part in ensuring that the light of the Gospel shines brightly in Warsaw, Missouri. In Jesus’ name, I pray for the strength and guidance to fulfill this commitment. Amen.