Author: Elton Streyle, Contributor: Noah, Photography and Editing: Ali

Heavenly Father, I come in Jesus Christ’s Name to thank You for this special day that we celebrate in the United States. It became famous in history in 1776 when 13 colonies officially declared independence from England. It is special because it is the day the United Sates was formed and became a free nation. Over the years, there have been attempts at trying to destroy and take away this freedom that we enjoy and many times take for granted. I ask that You remind us as individuals, and as a nation, of Your statement in the Bible in Psalm 33:12a. “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD.“

I ask that You start a revival and a spiritual awakening in our nation through forgiveness, repentance, and turning us back to You. It is only by Your mercy, grace, and restoration in our country that we will be able to continue to experience the blessing of the last 200 years. Therefore, I come to You claiming Hebrews 4:16. “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.“

I also rest in Your promise in 2 Corinthians 12:9a. Jesus said: ‘”My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.“‘ Thank you for the many who over the years have fought and died for our flag, which stands for freedom and liberty, and represents the beliefs of the citizens of this great country.

With all that is happening in our nation this 4th of July, remind us personally and as a nation that “freedom is not free,” and is worth defending and praying for. Encourage us as believers to follow the example in Psalm 118:5. “I called on the LORD in distress; the LORD answered me and set me in a broad place.“

In the powerful Name of Jesus, amen.