"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 will heal their land."

(2 Chronicles 7: 14, NIV) 

Dear Friend, 

This is a crucial and important time in our nation's history. As we watch the news and see our country (and the world) changing daily right before our eyes, we realize that we are living in unprecedented and dangerous times. People everywhere are looking for answers to the problems that the world now faces. The Bible tells us that in the last days men and women will not adhere to a Godly standard, but instead, they will do what seems right in their own eyes.

The President of the United States of America boldly promised "change" for our nation when he took office, and no doubt, so far he has kept his word. Unfortunately, at the time, not many of us inquired as to what kind of change he was referring to. Prayerfully, we are awake now, and thankfully we are not without hope. We who are in Christ are the ones who have the power to bring about the right kind of change - Godly change.

Although there are those who would call the changes that our nation is now undergoing as progress, and believe that we are healthier as a nation than ever before, we who are called by God's name know that our nation is in a spiraling decline. We are sick and desperately in need of a physician. When God addressed the subject of a sick nation that needed healing (see above scripture), He did not address the ones who necessarily held political power or influence. Why? It is not within the political elite's hands (or heart) to heal our land! The ones to whom the land has been given are the ones who hold the power to bring about Godly change and healing. And make no mistake about it, this land belongs to you and me. 

Perhaps that is why God laid the profound responsibility for the future of this nation at the feet of His people - the people who are called by His name - the people to whom this land was given. We are the ones to whom God speaks specifically. The Bible "specifically" says that we who are called by His name have a power that goes beyond the power of any government. That means that we have the power of Almighty God, not only to change our personal lives and destiny, but to change the destiny of our nation, as well. 

Today, our nation is in desperate need of change, and healing. God did not call us to join ranks with the naysayers or doomsday prophets concerning our nation, or the world. He did, however, call His people to action in 2 Chronicles 7: 14. If ever there was a time when we must put our faith into action and obey God's Word to the letter, today is that day. If ever there was time to get serious about our nation, again, I say that today is that day. According to scripture, we must humble ourselves and pray. When? Now! We must seek God's face and turn from evil. When? Right now! We must do it for our family and those we love. We must do it for America's children and their future. We must do it because God said so. But will we? According to God, that is the big "If" upon which everything else now hangs in the balance. 

In 2 Chronicles 7: 14 (see above scripture), it starts out with the word "If". This lets us know that the desired result or thing we hope for (the healing of our land) is contingent upon us meeting certain criteria. If we meet that criteria, then God says He will do the miracle that is needed. This is proof irrefutable that God has ordained that we walk in "covenant partnership" with Him in order to bring about desired results - His desired results. It is also a wake-up call when it comes to power. There is no doubt, our God holds the power to heal our nation and could do so without our help. And yet, He requires that we be a part of the answer we so desperately need. You see, the great question that we are faced with today is not "Will God heal our nation?". The greater question is "Are we who are called by His name willing to do what He said to do in order to bring that healing about?". 

This year as we celebrate America and our independence, I hope you will join me and my family as we commit to obeying 2 Chronicles 7: 14. Finally, never forget, our nation's government once took the time to write in ink the words, "We The People ...". It was to serve as a reminder throughout generations that it is you and I, and not the politicians or government who hold power. The Bible also gave us another important reminder about power, "If my people, who are called by name, ...". Written in blood, this is our everlasting assurance that God is for us, and there is always hope! 

 May God bless you, and have a wonderful and safe July 4'th!

Riding With Faith,

Susan Klaudt