Why are some nations worse than others?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: Why are some nations worse than others? America is no perfect nation, especially these days, but we were once a country that was an example to the world. What causes such a change? Does the Bible give an example? – G.N.
A: God honored and blessed America as few nations in history, but in recent years, the nation has moved away from its spiritual heritage.
The great King David ruled the nation of Israel, but he knew that if the tide of sinful pride continued to rise, his nation would collapse spiritually. He knew that economic depression, moral disintegration, and military defeat inevitably follow spiritual decline. So he did what all intelligent leaders should do when they reach the end of their ropes – he turned to God, and it was revealed to him by the Spirit of God that the tide of his nation could rise no higher than the spiritual level of his own heart. So he fell on his knees in utter humility and prayed this prayer: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my [thoughts]; and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23–24, NKJV).
A nation can rise no higher, can be no stronger, can be no better than the individuals that compose that nation! There is nothing wrong with the world. The trouble lies with the world’s people. If the world is bad, it is the people who are bad. If the world is confused, it is the people in the world who are confused. If this is a godless world, it is the people who are godless. David realized this truth, and in wisdom, he concluded that he should start making things right in himself! Each one of us needs to reach that same conclusion.
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2024 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2024 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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