Many people in our nation are turning away from God, believing that religion is no longer important. As  more and more people turn away from God, evil will prevail. In Psalm 33:12 (NIV) it says, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.” If we want God’s blessing on our nation, then we need to be a nation who honors and fears our Almighty God.

God is patient with us and willing to forgive. In 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV) it says, “If my people who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

This Thursday, as we celebrate our country’s freedom, let’s remind our families and friends that God will bless those who love and obey him. As you gather around your dinner table or picnic table, here is an Independence Day prayer to share with your loved ones:

Father, thank you for the great blessings you have given to our country. You have been faithful to us even when our country is not faithful to you. Please help us to humble ourselves, to pray, and to seek you more diligently. We pray for our leaders, that they would seek you. We pray for our nation, that it would turn back to you. We confess our sin and ask for your mercy and grace. Please hear from heaven, forgive our sin, and heal our land. You alone are our hope and trust; bless us according to your  Word. Thank you for the food you have given us today. In Jesus’s name we pray, amen.

A Prayer for Children

Lord, please bless our nation.
Keep us safe and strong.
Give our leaders wisdom
to know what’s right or wrong.
Please forgive us of our sins,
and help us to obey.
May our leaders trust in you
and take the time to pray.

In Jesus’ name, amen.

Crystal Bowman

Prayers are taken from Family Mealtime Prayers, by Dale Cangelosi and Crystal Bowman