1 Thess. 5:15-18 “Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always try to be kind to each other and to everyone else. Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

1 Tim. 2:1-3 “I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful... lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God”

Being Grateful To God For The Land You Live In Why? How? What?

WHY? (should I be grateful) Romans 1:18-27

“For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened.” Romans 1:21

The first step to a godless and wicked society is this: God’s people stop giving thanks to Him

Hate never changed a heart. Hearts are the only thing that will eventually change this nation

Showing people God’s light and life through your life is the only way anyone else will conquer the darkness and blindness of sin

HOW? (do I become grateful) Philippians 4:6-9

“whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. ” Phil. 4:8

HOW? God can change a heart. You have to change your focus. (which means you have to trust God with the other stuff)

HOW? God’s Word before and more than any media (confess your sinful addiction)

WHAT? (in America can I be grateful for) Practicing Philippians 4:8

“whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. ” Phil. 4:8

Patrick Henry “It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

John Adams “We recognize no Sovereign but God, and no King but Jesus!” "Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other."

The Frame of Gov’t / 1776 Constitution "Each member of the legislature, before he takes his seat, shall make and subscribe the following declaration: 'I do believe in one God, the Creator and Governour of the Universe...”

“....the Rewarder of the good and Punisher of the wicked, and I do acknowledge the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament to be given by Divine Inspiration.'" The Frame of Gov’t / 1776 Constitution

Thomas Jefferson “No nation has ever yet existed or been governed without religion. Nor can be. The Christian religion is the best religion that has ever been given to man, and I as chief Magistrate of this nation am bound to give it the sanction of my example.”

“whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. ” Phil. 4:8

“Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13 Noble: having or showing fine personal qualities or high moral principles and ideals

“whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. ” Phil. 4:8

“Righteousness exalts a NATION, but sin condemns any people.” Proverbs 14:34

ddfadd Gov’t / reflects People / seek BIBLE Culture / honors Leaders / submit When (all the parts of) a NATION are “right”, it will overcome (be exalted over) the problems and destruction of sin

“As God’s people, it is our responsibility to not only rebuke what is wrong but equally praise and strengthen what is right in our country. When we give thanks we strengthen God’s ways among our community.”

“whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. ” Phil. 4:8

1 Peter 4:14-16 “If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you... if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.”

ddfadd Gov’t People PERSECUTED CHURCH Culture Leaders “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matt. 5:10)

Showing people God’s light and life through your life is the only way anyone else will conquer the darkness and blindness of sin Grieve. Be Grateful. Trust God.