The Call to National Accountability
by Dr. Charles Stanley
In this powerful interactive teaching series, The Call to National Accountability, Dr. Stanley will open your eyes to your personal responsibility as a Christian and as a citizen of the United States in these trying times.
Lesson 1: A Call to Accountability
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Summary
As citizens of a democratic nation, we are blessed with many privileges. But along with those freedoms come accountability. We must live the kind of life that strengthens our country and helps preserve the "inalienable rights" given to us by our Creator.
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Lesson 2: God's Blessings Upon America
God has certainly blessed the United States. He's extended His hand of provision across this great nation. Yet, how often do we fail to thank Him?
As most Americans prepare to celebrate our independence next week, it's fitting to take a moment and offer thanks to God. He's provided so abundantly for us. Think about how God has blessed us in the following areas:
First, our godly heritage. History shows that many of the men who signed our Constitution were Christians. This country was founded on biblical principles and a Christ-centered interpretation of justice, fairness, and equal opportunity.
Second, He's blessed us with natural resources. Just think about the blessings God's placed at our feet: ore, minerals, oil, forests, lakes, pastures, farmlands, and more. He's provided what we need for ourselves and enough to care for other countries around the world.
Third, we should appreciate our economy. The free enterprise we enjoy in America is a remarkable blessing. We excel in innovations because we're at liberty to follow our passions.
Finally, God has placed us in a free country. You should thank God for the election process and the freedom to personally impact the direction of this nation. It's an amazing blessing that's completely foreign in many parts of the world.
This weekend, slow down a bit and look around. Try to intentionally notice the Lord's blessings in your life. What do you need to thank Him for?
Lesson 3: "God Bless America"
In 1918, Irving Berlin wrote "God Bless America", a song that has touched millions of lives for nearly a century. But some Americans take the lyrics of that masterpiece for granted.
In 1938, Berlin slightly rewrote the lyrics to reflect the tone of the country as war threatened Europe. He created an instant sensation. "God Bless America" was soon heard from shore to shore in churches, town squares, and social gatherings. The song received tremendous air time on the radio. The American people feared the coming war and embraced this song as a unified prayer for peace and protection.
The lyrics pierced the heart of the culture. Millions of Americans prayerfully sang:
God bless America, land that I love.
Stand beside her and guide her
Through the night with a light from above.
From the mountains, to the prairies
To the oceans white with foam
God bless America, my home sweet home.
In the midst of today's war, it's a tragedy that we’ve lost touch with this song of faith. Over the past few decades, we've shifted away from a national faith in God toward a sometimes self-important, self-centered, and self-empowered lack of faith.
As you cry out to the Lord today, Dr. Stanley challenges you to rediscover "God Bless America." Lift it up to God in prayer. Speak the words slowly. Let each phrase touch your heart as you make this petition to the King of all nations.
Interview with David Barton
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