Good morning: “You don’t know what you have until it’s gone.” That expression is a sad commentary on human nature. It’s so easy to take God’s blessings for granted or even complain about them, rather than thank Him for His undeserved love. When was the last time you thanked God for our nation? The Bible says, “The authorities that exist have been established by God...For he is God’s servant to do you good” (Rom. 13:1,4). Yet most of us have to admit that we have done far more complaining about the authorities established by God than thanking Him. Admittedly, our government is far from perfect. It’s made up of sinful human beings. But that doesn’t stop God from filling our lives with blessings through it: The order of law and its protection through police, military, and courts; public services such as roads, utilities, and social programs; and especially the freedom to follow Christ and gather together for worship without interference. If we take these things for granted, we are in danger of losing them. May we instead thank the Lord, pray for our leaders, and be faithful citizens in working to preserve what God has given. Above all, thank God for the eternal blessing of forgiveness in Christ. If we take our salvation for granted, we are in danger of losing it. Remember what Jesus says. “What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?” (Matt. 16:26). God warned Israel that because of their spiritual indifference, He would send a “famine of hearing the words of the LORD” (Amos 8:11). Let’s use this holiday weekend to “praise God from whom all blessings flow.” Thank Him for the gift of our nation and praise Him for the eternal kingdom rule of Jesus’ love in our hearts by faith. Service time tomorrow is 9 a.m. The Lord’s Supper will be celebrated. The July-Sep. activity committee will meet after the service. Yours in Christ, Pastor
