We can criticize our nation for...

• Going to war - or not going to war.
• Spending too much - or spending too little.
• Favoring the rich - or favoring the poor.
• Interfering in our daily lives - or not helping us enough.

All of those are criticisms that have been leveled against our government just this month! And those are popularly accepted. But you won't be popular if you criticize the government for failing to follow God's word.

I know all the arguments about the separation of church and state. However, even though we are called by God to be loyal citizens, God's Word also holds kings and presidents and congressmen and bureaucrats accountable. God judged even pagan nations for their wrongs, and God's prophets announced their judgment.

Many American Christians are quick to criticize our government for its high taxes and oppressive regulations. But are we as quick to point out our nation's moral faults? Thomas Jefferson wrote, "I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just: that his justice cannot sleep forever." He was thinking of slavery, but are there sins for which our country will one day be held accountable?

We are not all of us called to be prophets - to announce the coming judgment of God. But we are all of us called to pray for our nation. "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 and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness." (I Timothy 2:1-2)

Perhaps that is something that you could begin today.