9-11-2001. 19 years ago today, 19 terrorists attacked this nation in the name of Islam, taking the lives of nearly 3,000 American men, women, and children. Our nation was shocked to the core by the horrific actions perpetrated by these enemies of our country and those behind them. None of us will ever forget where we were at the moment we heard the news. It’s a day I certainly will #NeverForget.
In his Presidential Proclamation in honor of the thousands lost on that day, President Donald J. Trump said, “Our Nation’s darkest hour was pierced by candlelight, our anguish was met with prayer, and our grief was met with unity. Like so many times before in our country’s history, we sought peace and strength through faith…we pray for the families of all those who were lost and honor the courageous heroes who came through for our Nation when we needed them most. Together, as one Nation under God, we renew our vow to never forget. We cherish each other as fellow Americans and look proudly to our flag—an unwavering reminder of freedom’s triumph over fear. And, above all, we thank God for the strength and courage He has provided us, and take heart that our beloved departed now rest in His loving embrace.”
The President’s words are so true. Today, I urge you to take a moment and pray for the families who lost loved ones that September 11, and for those who so bravely ran into the fire to rescue and help those injured or trapped. Pray also for the state of our nation today. I believe that only God can fix the problems we’re facing. He alone is our hope in the middle of the unrest. Turn to Him today. #ThrowbackPhoto
This should get our attention—actually, it should shake us up and strike a chord of alarm in our hearts. Read this letter that His Excellency, Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, wrote to President Donald J. Trump. I’m not Catholic, but Archbishop Viganò has a lot of valid concerns.
He warned, “this historical moment sees the forces of Evil aligned in a battle without quarter against the forces of Good … Daily we sense the attacks multiplying of those who want to destroy the very basis of society: the natural family, respect for human life, love of country, freedom of education and business.” Read more, and pray for our nation.
It was a privilege and an honor to have Vice President Mike Pence join me and my family for church today at Alliance Bible Fellowship in Boone, North Carolina. It means so much that, even with his ultra-busy schedule, the Vice President made time and took the effort to come for worship and teaching from the Word of God. I am so thankful that we have a strong Christian leader serving in this key role—it makes such a difference for our country. I know that God uses him greatly, and hope you will join me in praying for him and his family.
Jesus said, “If the world hates you, you know that it hated Me before it hated you.” (John 15:18)
Again and again around the world we see Christians attacked for their beliefs. 25-year-old Justine Patrick was walking home from his job on a farm in Nigeria with two of his friends when they were ambushed by a group of Fulani militants and Justine was killed. Why? Because of his Christian beliefs. Muslim extremists in Nigeria have killed thousands of Christians, but the government refuses to act to stop them. This week in Nice, France, a Muslim extremist attacked and killed three people inside a church as he yelled "Allahu Akbar." French Prime Minister Jean Castex declared that this was an attack on freedom of religion. These are reminders to us in the United States that not all countries enjoy the same religious freedom we have had here in our nation. Today, on this INTERNATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER FOR PERSECUTED CHRISTIANS, would you pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ in Nigeria, France, and many countries who are facing violent persecution for their beliefs?
