Verse

Luke 12:15 - 21 And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.

Thursday, 24 April 2025

“A Heart for God, A Heart for Nation” I A Devotional I

 

“A Heart for God, A Heart for Nation”

Scripture Reading:
Jeremiah 29:7 (KJV)
"And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the Lord for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace."


📖 Reflection

Nationalism, in its purest and most virtuous form, is a deep love and loyal devotion to one’s country, its people, and its heritage — not out of mere obligation, but out of a desire to see it flourish in righteousness, justice, and peace. PASSian Education’s vision of holistic education alongside unwavering loyalty to the nation aligns with what Scripture teaches: God cares about nations and the character of their people.

In the Bible, God instructed the Israelites, even while in captivity, to pray for the prosperity of the cities where they dwelt, because their own welfare was tied to the peace of the nation. Likewise, we as citizens are called not only to benefit from the resources and freedom our nation provides but to actively contribute to its moral, cultural, and spiritual well-being.

A responsible citizen is first a person of integrity, courage, and compassion. These values are foundational in building a civil and sustainable society. Proverbs 14:34 (KJV) says, “Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.” A nation’s strength lies not just in its economy or defense but in the integrity and godliness of its people.

PASSian Education’s mission to develop informed and empowered citizens is rooted in these biblical principles — to raise a generation that embodies honesty, courage, compassion, and a devotion to democratic and patriotic ideals, while remaining grounded in their identity as people created in the image of God.


🙏 Devotional Thought

As Christians and responsible citizens, we must cultivate national consciousness not by mere symbolism or empty traditions but by upholding justice, standing for truth, respecting our leaders (as long as it is within God’s righteous boundaries), and seeking the welfare of our nation through prayer and good works.

As it is written in 1 Peter 2:13-17 (KJV): "Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme;
Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.
For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men:
As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God.
Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king."

It reminds us that our loyalty to our country is an extension of our loyalty to God. When we contribute to nation-building with honesty, courage, and compassion, we reflect His nature.


📌 Questions for Reflection:

  • Am I actively seeking the peace and welfare of my nation through prayer and participation?

  • How can I demonstrate courage and compassion in my community today?

  • In what ways am I contributing to the development of a society grounded in righteousness and justice?


🙏 Prayer

Father, thank You for placing me in this nation. Help me to be a responsible, honest, and courageous citizen who contributes to the welfare and peace of this land. Teach me to value the heritage You have allowed us to steward and to advance ideals that reflect Your righteousness. May I always honor You in how I serve my nation and fellow citizens. In Jesus' Name, Amen.


23 comments:

  1. Roselyn N. Caasi
    BEED-1
    CV2 | FRI | 1:00-2:00

    DEVOTIONAL WEEK 6: "A HEART FOR GOD, A HEART FOR NATION"
    This devotional reminds us that loving our country is not just a duty, but a deep devotion that comes from the heart. Being a good citizen is not just about following the law, but actively promoting justice, truth, and peace. It encourages us to be courageous and compassionate, to contribute to building a society based on righteousness and fairness. Our love for our country is a reflection of our love for God, because serving our country is serving Him. Prayer and participation are important in achieving peace and well-being for our nation. We, Filipinos should be responsible, honest, and courageous citizens, promoting ideals that reflect God's righteousness.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I realize that, tayo bilang tao, kailangan rin nating mahalin ang bansa natin hindi lamang ang mga bagay na tingin natin ay nakakatulong at nakakapagpasaya satin, bagkus lahat ay bigyan natin ng halaga. Katulad nga ng sinabi ng Diyos, na dapat nating mahalin ang kapwa natin tulad ng pagmamahal natin sating sarili at pamilya. Also God says na ang paraan para mapasalamatan natin siya ay ang pagtulong natin sa kapwa at paggawa ng mabuti. Dahil tunay nga na ang pagmamahal sa kapwa ay pagmamahal sa bayan.

    God trully rejoice when He knows that people have unity and peace.

    DEVOTIONAL WEEK 7: CV2 9:30 - 10:30 JOANA NICOLE DELA CRUZ ACT 1

    ReplyDelete
  3. Vic Joshua Arcalas
    BSCS-1
    Cv2 9 30 to 10 30

    A "Heart for God, Heart for Nation" devotional encourages individuals to develop a love for God and a concern for the global community. It emphasizes that God's plan involves making disciples among all nations and that individuals have a role to play in that plan. This type of devotional typically explores scriptures and prompts reflection on God's global purpose and how individuals can participate in fulfilling it.

    ReplyDelete
  4. Shariejun R. Balagosa
    BSCS-1
    CV2 9:30-10:30
    #Devotional week 7

    As a citizen and follower of Christ, I must ask myself if I am truly seeking the peace and comfort of my nation, not just in words, but through prayer and active participation. Each day presents opportunities to show courage by standing for truth and compassion by caring for those around me. Building a righteous society begins with personal integrity and a commitment to do what is right, even when it’s difficult. My choices, voice, and actions matter.

    ReplyDelete
  5. Carmela Carolino
    BEED-1
    CV-2(Friday 1:00-2:00)

    Devotional Week 6:
    “A Heart for God, A Heart for Nation"

    Reflection:
    For me, it reminds me na kailangan nating maging loyal sa ating bansa in all ways but first kailangan natin maging loyal and faithful kay Lord sa kahit anumang situation na kinakaharap natin sa araw araw. Sa ating panalangin, huwag natin kalimutan na ipanalangin ang bawat isa sa trabaho,business,sa pamilya at ang ating kapatid sa pananampalataya. Sabi nga sa verse na Mateo 22:37-39 na kung gaano natin kamahal ang ating sarili ay gayundin ang ating kapwa.Kung gaano natin iniibig ang ating Panginoon is gayon din sa ating kapwa. At Ipanalangin na ang ating bansa is payapa at walang problema or sakit na hinaharap kundi magkaisa ang bawat isa.

    ReplyDelete
  6. JHER PATRICK ANTHONY B. CONDE
    BSCS-1
    CV2 (9:30-10:30)

    #DEVOTIONALWEEK7
    Loving our country means helping it grow in kindness, fairness, and peace. We show this love by being honest, brave, and caring toward others.

    I can support my country by praying for it and helping in small ways to improve my community. Being brave by doing what is right and showing kindness to others are simple but meaningful actions. Sharing good values like fairness and respect also helps make our nation stronger and better. Through these efforts, we show care for both our country and its people.

    ReplyDelete
  7. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Rachelle Camba
    BSCS-1
    FRI 9:30-10:30
    Devotional week #7

    Loving our country is like loving our God. Loving our country is a devotion that comes from our heart and not a mere duty. Loving it is being a responsible people or citizen to it. As a responsible people has the integrity, courage and compassion to it. Also to have a consciousness for the things around it, and to stand by the truth and respect all the people of it. We all seek for the peace of our country and seek it through our prayer and our good works. Contributing to it, remind us our loyalty to God.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Princess Joy U. Osana
    Friday CV2 1:00-2:00

    This devotional, entitled "A Heart for God, A Heart for Nation" reminds me that loving our country is not just a duty. Tayo, bilang tao , kailangan natin mahalin ang ating sariling bansa hindi lang ang mga bagay na alam nating nakakapagpasaya at nakakatulong satin, dahil para sakin kapag mahal mo ang sariling bansa ay ibig-sabihin ay mahal mo din ang Diyos dahil Diyos ang may likha ng lahat ng nakikita sa balat ng lupa. As a responsible people has the integrity, courage and compassion to it. Also to have a consciousness for the things around it, and to stand by the truth and respect all the people of it. We all seek for the peace of our country and seek it through our prayer and our good works.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Maria Graciella Carace
    BEED-1
    CV-2 Friday 1:00-2:00
    When Christians weave honesty, courage, and compassion into the foundations of national life, patriotism becomes a daily act of devotion. Faith-fueled citizenship demonstrates the presence of God's kingdom on earthly streets, convincing us that a better society is not only possible. But it already exists.
    May our nationalism be in the wind of the Spirit, not only in the breeze of tradition, and may our love for country always reflect our first love for Jesus. Believers are ambassadors who carry their nation's flag. Patriotism is transformed from a meaningless ritual into a force for redemption when loyalty to God is manifested as commitment to the land. Therefore, may our civil involvement serve as evidence that God's kingdom is now emerging, one act of good citizenship at a time.
    For a Christian, patriotism is a public act of discipleship. Scripture calls us to strive hard for a significant nation-love that manifests as truth being spoken, justice being upheld, leaders being recognized within God's boundaries, and neighbor-focused, prayer-supported good deeds.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Kimberly Ambaliza | ACT-1
    CV2 Friday 9:30-10:30
    #DEVOTIONALWEEK7

    ‎Living with a strong sense of purpose, driven by faith and love for one's country, is what it means to have a heart for God and a heart for the nation. We are reminded in Jeremiah 29:7 that our peace and the peace of our country are connected. God calls us to pray, serve, and uplift in order to seek the good of the place we live in, even in strange or difficult situations. Genuine patriotism is a dedication to justice, compassion, and righteousness rather than just pride. We exhibit God's concern for the world when we live honorably and work to improve our communities. May we develop a stronger sense of civic duty as citizens who uphold moral principles as we deepen our faith.

    ReplyDelete
  12. JEROME DE VERA
    BSCS-1
    CV2(9:30-10;30)
    DEVOTIONAL WEEK 7

    Loving our nation it’s about showing real compassion, standing up for justice, and doing what’s right, even when it costs us something. In Jeremiah 29:7, God called the Israelites to pray for the cities they lived in, teaching us that the peace of our nation is closely tied to our own well-being.

    PASSian Education embraces this vision by raising not just smart students, but responsible, courageous citizens who care deeply about both God and their country. True national strength comes not from wealth or power, but from righteousness, honesty, and compassion in its people, just as Proverbs 14:34 reminds us.

    Being a good citizen means living purposefully, praying for our leaders, standing for truth, and serving with integrity. Our love for our country should flow from our deeper love for God

    ReplyDelete
  13. Pauline-janera Amita
    BSCS
    CV2 9:30-10:30 FRI

    Loving our God includes loving where you were born. In Jeremiah 29:7 God says teaching us the peace of our nation is closely to our well-being, it means that continuing and maintaining our respect and understanding in our country is also like worshiping and honoring our creator God.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Nankil,Angelica Mae C.
    Cv2 9:30-10:30
    DEVOTIONAL WEEK 7:

    "A HEART FOR GOD, A HEART FOR NATION"
    This devotional reminds us that loving our country is not just a duty, but a deep devotion that comes from the heart. Being a good citizen is not just about following the law, but actively promoting justice, truth, and peace. It encourages us to be courageous and compassionate, to contribute to building a society based on righteousness and fairness. Our love for our country is a reflection of our love for God, because serving our country is serving Him. Prayer and participation are important in achieving peace and well-being for our nation. We, Filipinos should be responsible, honest, and courageous citizens, promoting ideals that reflect God's righteousness.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Radam, John Neil, A.
    Cv2 9:30-10:30
    Devotional week 7


    My reflection is,Having compassion for our nation and the people around us is a demonstration of valuing not only ourselves but also God. As young followers of Christ, it is our duty to be mindful of and give importance to the events happening in our country. We can express this through sincere prayer and active participation as disciples of God. We should be aware and ready to fulfill our responsibilities as citizens, in accordance with God's will and purpose for us.

    ReplyDelete
  16. Having a heart for God means desiring His will above all else, while a heart for the nation reflects His love and compassion for others. When we align our hearts with God's, we are moved to pray, serve, and work for the well-being of our nation, trusting that He can bring healing and transformation.

    "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."
    — 2 Chronicles 7:14 (KJV)

    CARLO FRIANEZA
    BSCS-1
    CV2 9:30-10:30
    DEVOTIONAL WEEK 7

    ReplyDelete
  17. WEEK 7
    JUSTIN SANTOS
    BSCS 1
    CV2 9:30 - 10:30

    The moral and spiritual foundation that binds communities together is specifically addressed in this verse: "A nation is exalted by righteousness, but sin is a reproach to any people." It serves as a reminder that a country's integrity, fairness, and righteousness—rather than just its wealth, power, or influence—are what truly determine its health and dignity.

    ReplyDelete
  18. Roniel Dichoso
    BSCS - 1 CV2 9:30 - 10:30
    #Devotional week 7

    I try to help my nation by praying for peace, safety, and good leaders. I know that prayer is powerful, and I believe that God listens. I also do my best to be a good citizen by obeying the rules, respecting others, and being honest in what I do. Even small actions like being kind and helpful can bring peace to the people around me.

    I can show courage by doing what is right, even when it is not easy. If I see someone being treated unfairly, I can speak up or offer help. I can show compassion by being kind to others, helping those in need, and being a good listener. Sometimes, just being there for someone who is sad or lonely can show love and care in a big way.

    I try to live in a way that pleases God by being honest, fair, and respectful. I avoid doing wrong things and try to be a good example to others. I treat people equally and kindly, no matter who they are. I believe that when I do what is right and good, I help make my community and my country a better and more just place for everyone.

    ReplyDelete
  19. Trisha Riño
    BSCS 1
    CV2
    FRIDAY 9:30-10:30
    #DEVOTIONALWEEK7

    Genuine patriotism calls me to love my nation not just in word, but through active prayer and participation while interceding for its leaders, pursuing justice, and serving my community as Scripture commands (Proverbs 14:34; 1 Peter 2:13-17). I recognize that a nation’s strength flows from the righteousness of its people, so I commit to living with integrity, defending the vulnerable, and rejecting complacency in the face of wrongdoing. My faith compels me to view citizenship as sacred stewardship, where even small acts of courage and compassion contribute to God’s purposes for my country. By aligning my life with biblical values, truth, humility, and love for neighbor, I honor both my heavenly calling and my earthly responsibility to nation-building. May my daily choices reflect this dual loyalty to Christ’s kingdom first, and to the flourishing of the land He has placed me in.

    ReplyDelete
  20. Joanna gapasen
    BSCS1
    CV2 9:30-10:30

    Tending the Garden of Our Hearts
    In the midst of life's chaos, it's easy to neglect our spiritual growth. As busy individuals, we often find ourselves running on empty, struggling to find time for self-reflection and communion with God. However, just like a garden needs daily tending to bloom, our hearts and spirits require regular nourishment to bear fruit.

    ReplyDelete
  21. Christian Dave Areniego
    BSCS-1
    CV2 9:30-10:30
    Showing compassion for our country and those around us reflects not only our self-worth but also our reverence for God. As young Christians, it is our responsibility to stay informed and concerned about the happenings in our nation. We can live this out through heartfelt prayer and active engagement in our faith. As God's followers, we are called to be aware and prepared to carry out our civic duties, aligning them with His divine will and purpose for our lives.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Marie Claire A. Morna
    BEED-1
    CV2, FRIDAY 1:00 - 2:00

    WEEK 7: "A HEART FOR GOD, A HEART FOR NATION"

    Reflection:
    - Bilang isang mamamayan, kailangan maging mapagmahal at responsable tayo sa ating bansa. Kasama na rito ang paniniwala natin sa Diyos ay ang ipanalangin natin ang pagkakaroon ng katahimikan at kapayapaan sa ating bansa gayundin ang pagkakaisa ng mga mamamayan. At dapat tayong tumindig at kumampi sa mga lider na may totoong malasakit at pagmamahal sa bansa. Palagi nating piliing gumawa ng mabuti at may malasakit sa ating bayan dahil ito ay sumisimbolo rin ng ating pagmamahal sa Diyos, dahil lahat ng bagay sa ating mundong ginagalawan ay ang Panginoon Diyos lamang ang may kapangyarihang lumikha at makalikha.

    ReplyDelete
  23. Ronalen Garcia
    BSCS-1
    CV2 9:30-10:30
    DEVOTIONAL WEEK 7

    Nationalism – A Heart for God, A Heart for Nation beautifully ties together the biblical call to love and serve God with the responsibility of caring for and contributing to one’s nation. Loving God is the foundation for loving others—including one’s country. A heart aligned with God naturally reflects His values in every sphere, including national service.

    ReplyDelete

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