Proverbs 14:34  Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.
French writer Alexis de Tocqueville, after visiting America in 1831, said, “I sought for the greatness of the United States in her commodious harbors, her ample rivers, her fertile fields, and boundless forests–and it was not there. I sought for it in her rich mines, her vast world commerce, her public school system, and in her institutions of higher learning–and it was not there. I looked for it in her democratic Congress and her matchless Constitution–and it was not there. Not until I went into the churches of America and heard her pulpits flame with righteousness did I understand the secret of her genius and power. America is great because America is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great!”  Today is Independence day in the United States of America!  We celebrate our freedoms and our independence from Great Britain.   It’s in my heart to magnify how we achieved our independence.   Our independence was achieved through dependence!  Dependence on the God of the Bible!  As we read of the founders of this great nation one thing becomes obvious; there were many men that knew in their heart their need of divine guidance.   They prayed and relied on the Lord for help that only comes from above. The Psalmist said… “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help.  My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.”  It is wonderful to be an independent nation, so long as we remain dependent upon our Lord Jesus.   Lord, help us in America not to think of ourselves more highly than we ought to think.  We humbly acknowledge our need of thee.  In Jesus name.  Amen.  Pastor