“Which God Is It? Whose God Is It?”

In a Nation Divided on Its Day of Independence

Ekklesia Christian Life Ministries – Daily Devotion By Pastor Stephän Kirby

“Can two people walk together without agreeing on the direction?” – Amos 3:3 (NLT)“So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.” – John 8:36 (NLT)

The prophet Amos challenges the people of Israel with a rhetorical question: Can two walk together unless they are in alignment? The question isn’t just about people—it’s about us and God. In a divided nation, especially on a day like the Fourth of July, the real question isn't about political independence but spiritual allegiance.

Jesus Christ—not a flag, not a party, not a nation—is the One who sets us free. And yet, even among those who claim His name, God is viewed through different lenses: some see Him as Judge, others as Friend; some use His name to dominate, others cry out His name in desperation.

True freedom, then, isn’t about national celebration. It’s about daily surrender to the Lordship of Christ, who came not to endorse sides but to take over the direction of our lives. On this day, we must examine: Do I know the God of Scripture—or the god of my comfort, politics, or opinions?

1. Check Your Allegiances.Before pledging loyalty to a side, ideology, or tradition, ask if your first allegiance is to Christ. (1 Corinthians 6:19)

2. See the Whole God.God is Judge and Healer. Warrior and Comforter. Don’t reduce Him to what affirms your current mood or worldview. (Hebrews 10:30, Psalm 34:18)

3. Seek the God of Justice.Don’t confuse power with righteousness. God cares deeply about the oppressed and requires us to speak for them. (Proverbs 31:8, Micah 6:8)

4. Live the Freedom You’ve Been Given.Freedom in Christ isn’t a license for self-rule but a call to cross-bearing and disciple-making. (Luke 9:23, Matthew 28:19)

5. Ask the Hard Question Today:

   Not “Whose side is God on?”But “Does my life belong to God?”

Our Father, Jehovah Tsidkenu—The Lord Our Righteousness,On this day where many celebrate independence, I confess my dependence on You alone. Strip away the gods I’ve built in my image and restore my vision of who You truly are. You are not American. You are not partisan. You are not for sale. You are God—El Shaddai, El Roi, I AM.

Forgive me when I’ve tried to make You fit my agenda instead of surrendering to Yours. Teach me to follow the Jesus who carried a cross, not just the one who comforts me. Help me live as one truly free—not just in body, but in soul.

Give me courage to stand for justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with You. May my allegiance be marked not by a flag, but by faith, fruit, and faithfulness.

In Jesus’ name,Amen.

Let’s stop debating who owns God.Let’s start living like we belong to Him.

LoveUmorethanUknow, Pastor Stephan Kirby