First Baptist Church - Tempe

As we celebrate 250 years of America's history, we are reminded that the greatest freedom we will ever know is the freedom found in Jesus Christ.

In the midst of busy schedules and holiday celebrations, God's Word calls us to pause and remember what matters most.

Ephesians 3:14–19 records Paul's prayer for the church—that we would be strengthened by God's Spirit, rooted and grounded in Christ's love, and come to know the immeasurable breadth, length, height, and depth of His love. It is a love that surpasses understanding and fills us with the fullness of God.

That is our prayer for our church family today. May each of us experience the incredible love of Christ in a fresh way and be strengthened by His presence.

As we give thanks for 250 years of our nation's history, we are also grateful for the freedom to gather, worship, and proclaim the hope of the gospel. We recognize these freedoms as blessings from God and pray that we will continue to use them to honor Him.

Today we are praying for our nation, for President Donald Trump, for all those who serve in positions of leadership, and for the safety of the many celebrations taking place across our country. May God grant wisdom to our leaders, protection to our communities, and hearts that seek Him.

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." — Psalm 33:12

Happy Independence Day! May God continue to bless our nation as we seek to honor Him.