I am a patriotic American; however, I usually avoid talking about politics or promoting nationalism in my sermons or devotionals. I don't plan to break that rule today. Still, since we're celebrating the 249th year of America’s independence, it feels appropriate to reflect on what the Bible says about loving one’s country, regardless of which country it is.

Although the Bible doesn't explicitly tell us to love one nation more than another, including the United States, it encourages love, loyalty, and respect for one's country and its leaders. For example, Jeremiah 29:7 urges praying for the well-being of the city and the nation, and Romans 13:1 highlights the importance of submitting to governing authorities. 

Keeping this in mind, I want to share some Scriptures that encourage us to be biblically responsible Christians and American citizens.

• Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord! (Psalm 33:12, ESV)
• God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1, NIV)
• Godliness makes a nation great, but sin is a disgrace to any people. (Proverbs 14:34, NIV)
• Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have carried you into exile. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” (Jeremiah 29:7, NIV)
• First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. (1 Timothy 2:1-2, ESV)
• The king’s heart is like a stream of water directed by the LORD; he guides it wherever he pleases. (Proverbs 21:1, NLT)
• Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers” (Provers 11:14, NLT)
• He [God] builds up nations, and he destroys them. He expands nations, and he abandons them. He strips kings of understanding and leaves them wandering in a pathless wasteland. (Job 12:23-24, NLT)
• Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. (Romans 13:1, NIV)
• 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 Chronicles 7:14, ESV)

Hopefully, these Scriptures offer some guidance as we seek the Lord for the well-being of the United States and the world He loves.

The Lord’s peace be with your 4th!

Joe