This month we celebrate with fireworks, parades, and barbeques the 2nd Continental Congress’s ratification of the Declaration of Independence that would lead to the formation of the United States of America, arguably still the best country on Earth. While evidence supporting that position is admittedly waning, it does not change one fact: we are dual citizens of both America and Heaven. But which should have our loyalty?
A non-Christian may be a good US citizen. And being a good US citizen does not necessarily make a professed Christian a good one. However, it is impossible to be truly Christian and not be a good citizen of our country.
Scripture guides us to follow the model of the Jewish people. From the call of Abram to the present, they grouped together as both a nation and a people. They are the nation of Israel and the people of God. Likewise, we are the nation of the United States and simultaneously people called by God. Our allegiance is to God primarily, but our loyalty must be to both.
Many of us pray for our unsaved relatives. In like fashion, we must pray for our nation. if my people who are called by my name 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. (2 Chr 7:14)
Throughout the Old Testament, Israel and Judah seesawed between following and abandoning God, but they never ceased being a nation, nor did God forsake His promise of bringing His people together and blessing them. God has a remarkable way of turning around what the enemy means for evil, so now is certainly not the time to cease patriotism of both country and kingdom.
Lord, our nation has fallen into darkness, but Your light still shines brightly in those You have called. We ask You to give us wisdom and boldness to proclaim You to a nation blinded to the truth. Give eyes that see and ears that hear. In Jesus’ name, Amen.