thankful for my country

As I type, I am standing outside {in the cold} waiting to early vote. My first impulse is to gripe and complain {did I mention it's cold?} but instead I'll use this time to give thanks!

While I don't think my country or its government is perfect, I'm thankful to live in the United States of America. I'm thankful to have the opportunity to vote... thankful for all the rights and privileges I have as an American citizen... thankful for the freedoms I enjoy... thankful for the men and women who put themselves in harm's way to protect me and my family... thankful for a heritage of leaders who put God first in their decisions.

So as I vote today, I am praying that the Holy Spirit would be at work in the hearts of the men and women who will be in positions of influence as a result of this election... that they would know Jesus... that they would make decisions and legislation that honor Him.

I'm also thankful that God is in control of my country and of all nations. Our pastor shared a sermon yesterday which helped to orient my heart and mind to trust God's hands as He is at work in the world. {Click here to listen.} I hope you, dear reader, are encouraged and challenged as you listen.