1 Thessalonians 5:18

Welcome back to another episode of God is Better Than Cake, I’m your host, Lottie! 

And I’m Patrick!

No, you’re just dad.

Well, yes to you there missy! Hey, what day is it today?

It’s July 4th and that means…

Happy Independence Day!

Can you believe that it’s been 248 years since America declared independence from Britain? That’s a long time, almost as old as my dad.

Um, what?

[Charlotte laughs]

So anyway as I was saying, today those that live in America celebrate every year on July 4th that we are a free nation which makes it easy for me to do things like make this podcast.

You see if I lived in China or Russia or some other oppressive country, my parents and I would probably be arrested for making this podcast and telling the world about Jesus.

Today is a very special day! A day worth celebrating and giving thanks to God for the freedom that we have to talk about him, worship him freely and share the love of Jesus openly with those around us.

Yes, there are lots of countries where talking about Jesus is strictly forbidden!

Probably because Satan does not want the name of Jesus spoken so he’s worked hard to keep it that way.

Oh yes, he does not like that America is a free country either. But even if we lived in a different part of the world and were not able to worship God, should we still be grateful?

Yes, first Thessalonians 5:18 says, 

“give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you”

– 1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV

That is a really good reminder. So regardless of whether our circumstances are good or bad, we should be grateful?

Yep!  I’m glad we can celebrate independence but I think we should pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ in other parts of the world that are not able to freely worship God because it’s still hard for them. 

What do you think?

Oh yes, I agree. Would you like to start and I’ll finish?

Yes! Dear Lord, please be with all of your saints that are in countries that cannot freely talk about you or share you with others. Help them to still be able to do it even though it could get them in trouble. Help them to be grateful in all circumstances! Protect them and keep them safe and help us to be extra grateful for today where we can celebrate our freedom in America.

Thank you Lord for your abundant grace and love. We are grateful for our homeland and the freedoms we have to share Jesus with our neighbors. Please help all our brothers and sisters around the world to take comfort in you today and be grateful even if they are not as free as we are. Keep our hearts full of gratitude toward you.

We love you and worship you, in Jesus name, amen!

Thanks dad for joining me! I had a good time!

You’re welcome sweetheart, anytime

Thank you for listening to another episode of God is Better Than Cake. 

Remember to be kind to one another.

Until next time, Ciao