Devotional from January 2025 Christian Union National Fast
By matt bennett, founder and president of christian Union
“Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage! The LORD looks down from heaven; he sees all the children of man; from where he sits enthroned he looks out on all the inhabitants of the earth, he who fashions the hearts of them all and observes all their deeds.”-Psalm 33:12-15
Reflection:
The opening verse of this passage, “Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD,” is a profound declaration of divine favor. It reminds us that the true blessing of a nation, and indeed any people, comes not from wealth, power, or worldly success, but from recognizing and submitting to the sovereignty of the LORD. This recognition is not merely a matter of formal acknowledgment but requires a deep, heartfelt commitment to God as the ultimate authority and guide.
In the context of today’s world, where nations often seek prosperity through economic and military might, this psalm offers a counter-cultural truth: the real blessing lies in being chosen by God and walking in His ways. It’s not about the external markers of success but about aligning our hearts and lives with His will.
Verses 13-15 expand on this by portraying God as the sovereign ruler who observes all humanity. From His heavenly throne, God sees every individual, every action, and every heart. This divine oversight is not detached or indifferent; rather, it is the attentive observation of the One who “fashions the hearts of them all.” God’s omniscience encompasses not just our deeds but the very motivations and intentions of our hearts.
This should lead us to a place of humility and reverence. If God sees and knows all, then our lives are lived in constant awareness before Him. Our private thoughts, our hidden motives, and our secret deeds are all laid bare before the Creator. This awareness should drive us to seek integrity in our walk with God, aligning our outward actions with a heart that is true and devoted to Him.
Moreover, the passage emphasizes that God is the one who “fashions the hearts of them all.” This means that our very desires, inclinations, and purposes are shaped by the divine hand. We are not self-made; our hearts are crafted by the God who knows us better than we know ourselves. This should be a source of great comfort and security. Knowing that God is actively involved in shaping our hearts, we can trust Him to guide us in righteousness and truth.
As we reflect on this, we might consider the state of our own nation, community, or even our personal lives. Are we a people whose God is the LORD? Do we live under His authority, acknowledging His sovereignty in our decisions and actions? Do we allow God to fashion our hearts, or do we resist His shaping, preferring to follow our own desires?
Application:
National Reflection: Take time to pray for your nation, asking God to turn the hearts of the people back to Him. Pray for leaders to recognize the need for divine wisdom and guidance. America needs to return to God!
Community Engagement: Encourage others in your community or church to seek God wholeheartedly. As you do so, remember that God sees and blesses those who align their lives with His purposes.
Prayer:
“Dear Father, You are the one who sees all and knows all. We humble ourselves before You, recognizing that true blessing comes from being Your chosen people, walking in Your ways. Shape our hearts according to Your will. Help us to live lives of integrity, aware that we are always in Your sight. Bless our nation, our community, and each of us individually, as we seek to make You the center of all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
