Read Proverbs 14:25-35

I want to focus upon Proverbs 14:34 "Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people."

There is a level of pride in the United States that is dangerous.  This country operates as though it doesn't need God, that living any way you want is okay, and that we are stronger than any of the consequences God may bring upon us.  More profound words have rarely been penned than the words, “righteousness exalts a nation.” The principle is eternal because God's Word proclaims it so. It is as true today as it was three thousand years ago.  I have often stated that America's greatness isn't because of its great Constitution. Nor is it because of the wonderful natural resources we enjoy. It isn't because of American ingenuity or our work ethic, but rather America has been blessed because it was founded upon righteousness.  Whether or not people want to admit it, our country was founded upon Judeo-Christian principles.  It is the righteousness that exalts a nation!

In like manner, sin is a shame and a blot for any nation.  The world never seems to learn that, and the devil works hard to make sure they do not.   As you consider the devastation of the past several years: hurricanes and flooding, school shootings, the break-down of the family, the redefining of marriage, the 2008 financial collapse, and the 9-11 attacks, America has had its share of adversity.  The experts try to analyze every challenging event, but rarely does anyone consider that the root cause for most of our problems is sin.  Yes, sin is a reproach to any people!  Psalm 9:17 proclaims, "The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God."  The United States is one of those nations that has forgotten God.  We must take back our schools, our universities, our government, and the ultra-liberal news media, and make sure that we have a healthy dose of morality and God returned to this great country.

God help us, as believers, to be salt and light, in a world and nation ravaged by sin and corruption.

Your Friend and HIS,

Pastor Abbott

MEDITATIONS

1.  Describe how the United States has turned its back on God.

2.  Reflecting back on our history, what would you say was our greatest strength?

3.  What needs to happen for our country to turn back to God?  How can you help?

4.  How have public education, the news media, and liberal politicians impacted our nation?