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

Heavenly Father, Lord of all nations, I come to You in Jesus’ Name to thank You for the freedom I have here, in the United States of America. Especially in light of what has been happening in the world lately, I am grateful that I live in a country that allows me to worship You freely. Thank you for the reminder in Psalm 22:27-28 that one day all nations will recognize Your authority over them. “All the ends of the world shall remember and turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations shall worship before You. For the kingdom is the Lord’s, and He rules over the nations.“

As I celebrate Independence Day with family and friends, I ask that You be present with us. Direct me to give all glory and praise to You for the significance of this holiday, which is to be grateful for the many who have lost their lives or were injured defending our nation. Thank you for the people You have given me to celebrate our freedom with. Psalm 133:1 “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!“

Although there is much I love about my country, I confess, like Daniel did, that we have sinned greatly against You, and this grieves my heart as a believer in Your Son, Jesus Christ. Daniel 9:4a, 5 “I prayed to the Lord my God and confessed…we have sinned and done wrong. We have been wicked and have rebelled; we have turned away from your commands and laws.” Please bring the people of the United States back to loving You and each other. Show me how You want to use me to begin that change. Remind me that You have the power to transform our society, and that You will stand with me against a culture of ungodliness. May our flag, which stands for freedom fought for, always be raised high and honored.

To God be the glory. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.