Reflections of a Patriot

by Tommy Lloyd, Church Administrator / Veteran of the US Army

Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.  (Psalm 33:12a)



When we think of patriotism, we think of some young man or some young woman in a uniform of the branches of our military service.  That of course is evidence of patriotism and each of us should be agreeable to such service if called upon.  I can appreciate such evidences of patriotism after serving in the Army in the mid-1970.  While I consider it an honor to be a veteran, patriotism has a much larger emphasis.  We can all express God-honoring love of country regardless of who we are and regardless of where we are.



Downloadable coloring sheet



If we are going to understand the true nature of patriotism and the highest form of patriotism, we need look at God’s Holy Word. In the Scriptures we find evidence of Godly patriots. 

For example, Joseph was a shepherd boy who did a lot of dreaming. He was gifted by God with the ability to interpret dreams.  His dreams initially caused him trouble as his brothers sold him into slavery.  Despite being mistreated in a foreign land, Joseph was subject to and respectful of the people in authority over his life.

If Joseph’s attitude had been one of rebellion against the duly constituted authority of Egypt, he could never have been brought to a place of service. If Joseph had developed an intense hatred for the godless Pharaohs under whom he experienced injustices and imprisonment, he doubtless would never have been so fully and mightily used of God. On the contrary, in part because Joseph was able to be submissive to the Egyptian leaders, God used him to save millions of people.

Godly patriots today are respectful to their leaders.  And they follow and submit to those leaders as long as those leaders are not contrary to the established truth in God’s Holy Word.

Remember that patriotism does not lead to a prideful spirit.  Rather it results in a grateful heart toward God and a humble spirit toward our fellow citizens.

Possible activities for the day

1.  Pray for our leaders, our country, and our military.

2.  Pray and express thanks to God for the blessings He has poured on our country.

3.  If you see one of our military personnel on the streets, shake their hand and thank them for their service to our country.

4.  If you know a veteran personally, give them a call and thank them today.