28 Jun Depending on God in a Nation of Independence
 Since the USA declared independence from Britain in 1776, we’ve remained a nation that values self-determination and liberty. As we prepare to celebrate America’s 246th birthday, it is important to remember that while our freedom is a gift from God, our continued reliance on Him is a prerequisite to maintaining it. The founding fathers who established this new republic, including Benjamin Franklin and Thomas Jefferson who may not have been Christian, believed that in order for the republic to be held together, citizens must cleave to the Judeo-Christian values upon which it was founded. One of those foundational principles of Christian doctrine is obedience to God. In early America, settlers were known for their rugged individualism. America would never have broken away from Great Britain had it not have been for that spirit. Although they recognized the right of self-government was granted by God, they never believed themselves to be independent of His authority. Obedience to God is a frequent theme in the New Testament, such as Paul’s letters to the various churches, see Romans 6:12-23 for example (a reading from this week’s Presbyterian Planning Calendar), and Jesus who said “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it!” Luke 11:28 As for the founding fathers, they believed it was their duty to “trust and obey”, which is the title of one of my favorite Methodist hymns. This is a sampling of the many verses, as chosen by Jehovah Shalom Acapella singers seen below: REFRAIN Trust and obey, for there’s no other way To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey. When we walk with the Lord in the light of His Word, What a glory He sheds on our way! While we do His good will, He abides with us still, And with all who will trust and obey. REFRAIN Then in fellowship sweet we will sit at His feet, Or we’ll walk by His side in the way; What He says we will do, where He sends we will go; Never fear, only trust and obey. REFRAIN Watch their rendition and be filled with joy! |
| Your Sister in Christ, Shelly Good-Cook Office Manager |
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