I can remember at least three events that brought Americans together with a focus on our God-given heritage and our dependence on Him as a nation. During our bicentennial celebration in 1976, several ministries joined to celebrate our country's survival and blessings as a nation under God. The Moral Majority organization was established as a force for morality. "I Love America" concerts were performed at each state's capitol building. The nation was united in acknowledging God's hand in our blessings. But over the course of time, we drifted away from depending upon God.

The second time that I saw a united dependence on God was immediately following the events of September 11, 2001. As a nation, we were brought to our knees in repentance and prayer. Although the events of that day were traumatic, the effects brought us back to God. Church attendance was up, and public prayer was common during those first days. But as our nation began to heal, we became more confident in our own power to overcome enemies without depending on God.

As we celebrate our 250th anniversary as a nation, we have seen that stirring toward repentance awaken again. Patriotism is rising again. We are recognizing that when we follow God in repentance and trust, He does bless our nation. As I write this, I am hopeful that our repentance will be a lasting one and that we will continue to recognize God's blessing on our nation. I hope that we will teach our children to have pride in our United States and to trust in God to preserve our nation. We need to avoid falling into the cycle of sin, failure, repentance, and a return to sin. We need to remain a nation that trusts in God.

When Benjamin Franklin was asked what kind of nation the founders had given us, he replied, "A republic, if you can keep it." We now ask our God what kind of nation He will give us, and His response is found in II Chronicles 7:14.

"If my people…shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." II Chronicles 7:14

He has promised national forgiveness and healing if we follow His commands. Ponder that!