“Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people."
— Proverbs 14:34
Alexis de Tocqueville, a French political thinker and historian wrote a book entitled Democracy in America. This book was published after his extensive travels in our country when it was still young.
There’s a quote about America’s greatness that is often attributed to Tocqueville. It bears remembering:
"I sought for the greatness and genius of America in her commodious harbors and her ample rivers—and it was not there . . . in her fertile fields and boundless forests—and it was not there . . . in her rich mines and her vast world commerce—and it was not there . . . in her democratic Congress and her matchless Constitution—and it was not there. Not until I went into the churches of America and heard her pulpits flame with righteousness did I understand the secret of her genius and power. America is great because she is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great."
That's right, our greatness has come from our goodness—from our belief in God's Word, which gives us the moral compass we need, so we can know right from wrong and good from evil.
In the classic song, "America the Beautiful," we sing the words, "America, America, God shed His grace on thee." And that is so true. God has been gracious to our country, and I pray that we will turn back to Him like never before. I pray it does not take a national crisis to get our attention.
How we need God in America today. And let's also not forget the Word of God that says, "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people" (Proverbs 14:34).
So this month, as you enjoy the fireworks and barbeques, remember the Lord who has blessed this nation in an extraordinary way. And remember to give Him thanks!
