Just a few days ago, we celebrated the 243rd anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, when our forefathers gathered at Freedom Hall in Philadelphia to sign the document that marked the birth of a new nation, the United States of America.

Across America, “Old Glory” flew proudly on the porches of millions of ordinary citizens who love our country; was held high in patriotic parades; and waved beautifully on tops of state capitols, the White House and national monuments.

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Incredibly, last month, at some of our American embassies, one diplomat revealed that “an insurrection of the first order” was taking place involving our “stars and stripes.” . . .

I want to thank President Donald J. Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for making the decision not to fly the gay flag over our embassies during June in recognition of gay pride month. That is the right decision. The only flag that should fly over our embassies is the flag of the United States of America. The gay pride flag is offensive to Christians and millions of people of other faiths, not only in this country but around the world. The U.S. flag represents our nation—everyone—regardless of race, religion or sexual orientation.

Here at home, 10 of the top Democratic 2020 presidential contenders flocked to Iowa—the nation’s first caucus state—for the Des Moines Capital City Pride Festival. New York Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand served drinks at a gay bar; Texas Rep. Beto O’Rourke sported a rainbow sweatband; and gay South Bend, Indiana, Mayor Pete Buttigieg talked openly about his coming out.

The notion that such immoral behavior clearly condemned by Scripture is now flaunted here at home and abroad reveals the deepening depravity that now vexes our country. What has happened to our great nation, whose Founding Fathers were men of uncommon character, virtually all of whom possessed a deep reverence for Almighty God and a firm belief in the hand of divine Providence?

They built this nation upon a strong foundation rooted in God’s laws. Sadly, that same moral and spiritual framework, which has held our nation together for 243 years, is now unraveling so quickly that I fear for the future of our children and grandchildren. The America that I knew as a young boy growing up in the mountains of North Carolina has changed so radically. . .

Nonetheless, I believe God is able to powerfully and supernaturally work in the midst of prevailing moral darkness to shine the saving truth of the Gospel into the hardened hearts of men and women.

This I know—God hears and answers the prayers of His people. Prayer is the most powerful weapon in the universe because our prayers come before Almighty God, who works all things according to the counsel of His will. “The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations” (Psalm 33:11). His purpose can never be thwarted: “I know that You can do everything, and that no purpose of Yours can be withheld from You” (Job 42:2).

It was men and women of faith who founded this great nation, relying steadfastly upon their faith in God.

May it be men and women of faith today—faith in the awesome, sovereign power of God—who will stand fast on the Word of God and refuse to bend their knee to the false gods and idols of this present age. (Excerpt from Decision, commentary by Franklin Graham)

We are so thankful for you, interceding for our nation. Our prayers can change the direction of this nation.