JULY 26, 2026

TEXT:  Genesis 18

We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress,
Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions,
do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and
declare, That these United Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent
States; that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political
connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved;
and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace,
contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which
Independent States may of right do. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm
reliance on the protection of divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives,
our Fortunes and our sacred Honor.

I. The Lord is the Supreme Judge of the world
A. He always does right as the Judge of all the earth (v. 25)
B. Jesus is the ultimate and final Judge of us all appointed by God (John 5:22-27)
C. We will all give account for our lives to the Lord Jesus Christ (II Corinthians 5:5-10, 5:17-21; Romans 14:7-12; II Timothy 4:1; I Peter 4:5)

II. The Lord providentially works in His protection of those who trust in Him
A. God is sovereignly in control over history and nations
1. Proverbs 16:33
2. Daniel 4:34-37
3. Acts 17:26-28
B. God is sovereignly guiding in human affairs for good and for His glory
1. Genesis 50:20
2. Proverbs 16:9
3. Romans 8:28
C. God is sovereignly upholding and providing for His creation as the Creator
1. Psalm 104:14-15; Psalm 147:5-20

2. Psalm 135:6
3. Matthew 6:26
D. God is sovereignly accomplishing His eternal plan and fulfilling His promises
1. Isaiah 46:9-10
2. Ephesians 1:11

III. The Lord is worthy of our devotion even more than our nation

A. The Lord is worthy of our devotion with our lives being engaged in His church
1. Worshipping in His church faithfully (Psalm 122:1, 9; Psalm 95:1-7)
2. Working in His ministry of His church faithfully (Psalm 100)
3. Witnessing of His goodness and gospel to those around us faithfully (I Chronicles 16:8; Psalm 18:49-50, 89:1, 105:1, 145:12; Acts 1:8)
B. The Lord is worthy of our devotion with our fortunes in His work on earth (II Corinthians 4:15-16, 9:6-15)

C. The Lord is worthy of our devotion with our honor in living life to His glory (I Corinthians 10:31, Revelation 4:11)