Jack Hibbs: In God We Trust
Genesis 47:15 reads, “So when the money failed in the land of Egypt…”
Ancient Egypt once overflowed with wealth and prosperity until natural disasters and famine brought it to its knees, bankrupt. The hot, dry north African winds began blowing and didn’t stop. Temperatures inched upward, and no rain fell. With ruined crops came livestock deaths, and Egypt’s currency failed.
The history of that nation and others that rejected God should prove a powerful lesson to the land once free. Look at their diminished power, sad standard of living, and devaluation of human life. Look at the fate of their paper gods. Is it possible that America could share Egypt’s tragic fate?
When America was burgeoning as an economic power and prosperity seemed inevitable to those willing to work, our nation’s leaders became concerned—too much riches, too soon, could spell disaster for a young nation. And so, it was agreed upon that In God We Trust would be embossed on our currency.
Previously, no nation had the desire, humility, or boldness to keep God ever before its citizens’ eyes. Yet, in our wealth and fatness, we have forgotten the Provider of our blessings. We have forgotten that He hears the perverseness of our judges and lawmakers. Forgotten that God sees the complacency of His church, her refusal to be salt and light in the world. America, America, why should God shed His grace on thee?
Let us return to the Lord in heartfelt brokenness and true repentance. And may we trust in God alone, who is “merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy” (Psalm 103:8).
