Even today we reflect upon the events of 9-11-01 and we realize how fragile our lives are. Despite all our power and all our wealth as Americans we find that we are still vulnerable. We are uncomfortable with these thoughts. The unknown, the uncertainties of life make us aware of our human frailties. We would prefer to be self-sufficient. We would like to be the “stand on our own two feet, pull yourself up by your own bootstraps” kind of people.

Somewhere along the line we bought into the lie of the devil that depending upon God is a form of weakness. Confessing our need for God’s help and guidance is looked down on by some. We do have needs that we are unable to meet, needs that only God can meet. We were created in such a way that our needs would lead us to God. Our quest for self-sufficiency is out of the will of God. God is the only one that can meet our needs. If we reject this, we are doomed to lives full of confusion, frustration and finally destruction.

If we will seek the Lord personally and as a nation, we will find peace, joy and love. God is willing to equip us with all that we need. Jesus put it this way in Matthew 6:33, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

As we seek God let us be reminded of the words of Jesus from the Sermon on the Mount Matthew 5:3-12. “Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.”

In these previous words the world finds weakness. To the Christian they are a strength to live. The kind of strength we need as a nation.

Jesus taught His disciples to pray a prayer that speaks of our utter dependency on God in Matthew 6:9-13, “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.”

“Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near” Isaiah 55:6