The Greatness of America

By Greg Laurie, Op-ed contributor Monday, May 25, 2009

"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." - Proverbs 14:34

Today's devotion is also the latest entry at Pastor Greg's blog. To read more from Pastor Greg's blog, click here.

As you know, today is Memorial Day. So when we gather with family and friends for BBQ and celebration, let's not forget those courageous men and women who have served and even died for the precious freedom we enjoy in the greatest country on earth, the United States of America!

Yes, that's right. I still think we are the greatest county on earth, despite our flaws and shortcomings. And I believe that is because of our Christian roots, which we stray from at our own peril.

America is great because she is good

Alexis de Tocqueville, a French political thinker and historian wrote a book entitled, Democracy in America. This book was published after his extensive travels in our country when it was still young.

He made the statement about the "greateness" of America that bears remembering:

"I sought for the greatness and genius of America in her commodious harbors and her ample rivers-and it was not there . . . in her fertile fields and boundless forests-and it was not there . . . in her rich mines and her vast world commerce-and it was not there . . . 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 she is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great."

Righteousness exalts a nation

That's right, our greatness comes from our goodness. From our belief in God's Word, which gives us the moral compass we need, so we can know right from wrong and good from evil.

In the classic song, "America the Beautiful," we sing the words, "America, America, God shed His grace on thee." And that is so true.

God has been gracious to our country, and I pray that we will turn back to Him like never before. I pray it does not take a national crisis to get our attention.

How we need God in America today. And let's also not forget the Word of God that says, "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people" (Proverbs 14:34).

Enjoy your freedom!

So today, remember the sacrifices that have been made by those that fought for and fight for us in uniform. And remember the Lord who has blessed this nation in an extraordinary way.

As you get ready to dig in to your burgers, chicken, baked beans, etc., remember to give thanks to the Lord.

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