Maybe we do not realize just how well off or blessed we are until we lose it. It could be health, marriage, raising children, finances, jobs, housing, food, safe neighborhoods, and these are just a few from a long list.
There is so much turmoil and rumors of war in much of our world. There is violence, ruthless killing, people and families fleeing for their very lives. Leaving in the middle of the night with nothing but the clothes on their backs. And many times separated never to see a child or loved one again. Religious intolerance and people being forced to accept a religion or way they do not want or agree with.
Sure, our Country has problems, but it is a lot better than most places. We have so many freedoms and opportunities.
May we begin the New Year on our knees thanking God for our country ( Colossians 1:16 For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.), and the many blessings it provides for us and asking Him to protect it.
Psalm 86:6 Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer; listen to my plea for grace.
We may commit ourselves this New Year to read our Bibles more and spend more time in prayer.
Hebrews 10:22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, with our hearts sprinkled clean from an evil conscience and our bodies washed with pure water.
Colossians 4:2 Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving.
Our political leaders need our prayers. Also ask God to raise up good Godly leaders for us.
Romans 13:6-7 For because of this you also pay taxes, for the authorities are ministers of God, attending to this very thing. Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed.
May our lives be filled with the presence of God and His love and may that be passed on to our families, local communities, Churches and our nation.
See you in Church next Sunday.