During a dinner on July 26 marking SAF Day, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong said: “The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) has been a major reason for the peace and security Singapore had for almost 60 years.” (The Straits Times, July 27, 2024)

Yes, I agree, but will also add “by the grace of God”.

The prophet Daniel told Nebuchadnezzar that it is God who is solely in charge of the nation’s peace and security.

“He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings.” (Daniel 2:21)

On this occasion of our nation’s 59th birthday, we can thank God for peace and security. I thank God that I am able to sing our nation’s National Anthem, too. Let us pray that the Lord will continue to be gracious to Singapore.

How else shall we commemorate this occasion?

1. Do not be proud of our prosperity and achievements

It is very easy to be filled with pride. From formerly being recognised as a “third world nation” to becoming a “first world nation” within a short span of time, this Little Red Dot has truly achieved a lot.

But let us be reminded by the prophet Isaiah: “Behold, the nations are like a drop from a bucket, and are accounted as the dust on the scales; behold, he takes up the coastlands like fine dust.” (Isaiah 40:15)

We are what we are by the grace of God. We have come so far by His goodness and grace alone. God gave us good leaders to lead and build our nation. We must always be thankful to the Lord for these blessings and remain humble.

I have seen proud Singaporeans in the third world mission fields who have an “I am more superior than thou” attitude. We must never have such an attitude. Humility is the hallmark of a true disciple of Jesus Christ.

2. Never take things for granted

The Pioneer and Merdeka generations have seen our nation go through trying periods, from the Second World War to the Malayan Communist Insurgency, Indonesia-Malaysia Confrontation, racial riots and Hock Lee bus riots – times when there was water rationing and other hardships. Life wasn’t easy in those days.

But now things have changed for the better. At the turn of the tap, we get drinking water in Singapore. Today, most Singaporeans say they need air con, and we enjoy it almost anywhere – in the malls, taxis, buses, even in the comfort of our homes. This is only one of the many examples of all we can be thankful to God for.

“Whatever is good and perfect comes down to us from God our Father.” (James 1:17)

But, on the contrary, many Singaporeans are grumblers. Like the children of Israel, we Christian Singaporeans grumble, too.

How often have you heard someone refer to complaining as a “national pastime” in Singapore? Let the Psalmist teach us to be thankful: “Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits”. (Psalm 103:2)

3. Be thankful for the freedom to worship our Lord

Christians in many countries today face severe persecutions and restrictions with regards to their religious activities. In Singapore, we enjoy the freedom of worship. Some of you can share your faith, too.

4. Pray for the Government

Pray that our leaders will continue to rule with equity and justice.

Paul urged the Christians to pray in this manner: “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

5. Keep watch over our future

“In the world you will have tribulation.” (John 16:33)

The world is not getting better. You already hear of wars and rumours of war, natural disasters and pestilences. (Matthew 24:6, 7)

This is prophetic. Our nation is vulnerable too. No one can change the plan of God. Sin has caused so much damage to the world. Only Jesus saves.

It would be good for us to take this occasion of National Day to “examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Or do you not realise this about yourselves, that Jesus Christ is in you? – unless indeed you fail to meet the test!” (2 Corinthians 13:5).

Have you received Jesus as your Lord and personal Saviour?

“And they said, ‘Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household.’” (Acts 16:31)

Jesus said: “Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’” (John 3:7).

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