From: Beverly French [frenchb@vcss.k12.ca.us]
Sent: Sunday, July 04, 2004 6:26 AM
To: Heritage
Subject: July 4th Greetings

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord..."  Psalm 33.12

On this Independence Day let us give thanks to Almighty God for placing us in the greatest nation on this earth (which greatly needs our
prayers) to live out our natural lives.  We are truly a blessed people, but there are forces of evil at work that are trying to tear at the very foundations of this great country.

 Romans 13:1 says, "Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God."

Since our leaders have been appointed by God, they are in His hands.  So we continually pray that they seek God's wisdom, guidance and strength. The Apostle Paul says, "Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful."  Colossians 4:2

Concerning civic righteousness:
"By the blessing of the upright the city is exalted,
 But it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked."  Proverbs 11:11

"Righteousness exalts a nation,
 But sin is a reproach to any people."  Proverbs 14:34

"Kings detest wrongdoing,
 For a throne is established through righteousness."  Proverbs 16:12

"Take away the wicked from before the king,
 And his throne will be established in righteousness."  Proverbs 25:5

"Because of the transgression of a land, many are its princes;  But by a man of understanding and knowledge  Right will be prolonged."  Proverbs 28:2

Romans 13:3 says, "For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil....Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same."

Concerning duty and doing good:
"Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work."  Titus 3:1

"Depart from evil, and do good;
 Seek peace, and pursue it."  Psalm 34:14

"Trust in the Lord; and do good;
 Dwell in the land, and feed on His faithfulness."  Psalm 37:3

Let us not forget, but wholeheartedly heed 2 Chronicles 7:14, "If My people, who are called by My name, 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."

Let us give honor and praise to God who brought forth these United States of America.  And let us stand firm in the principles laid down by our founding fathers by the mighty hand of God!  Yes, ours is ONE NATION UNDER GOD!  How very blessed and grateful we are!