Unleashing the Beast

294 / U NLEASHING THE B EAST

escape in order to fight another day. Our forefathers acknowledged that God was guiding their steps and bringing them to the point of being an independent nation. In return they strove to be faithful to Him by insuring that future generations would enjoy the same freedoms they held dear. They established a nation whose laws and values were based upon the greatest of all guides, the Bible. Throughout our history, the God of Israel has continually watched over this nation through prosperity, distress and uncertainty. Consequently, America has grown accustomed to this security and abundance, to the degree of taking it for granted. So, when it seemed that God permitted something so tragic to occur, we couldn't help but wonder why. W HY W ERE W E A TTACKED ? I believe there is one basic reason why this tragedy happened. It is described in one word: relationship ! I am referring to the relationship this nation has enjoyed with God. The fact that this relationship is strained, at best, lies at the root of why we came under attack. Obviously, by permitting the September 11 attacks to be carried out, the Lord is trying to draw our attention to the fact that we have placed this relationship in jeopardy. He is desirous that we repent and return to Him. "As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent." (Revelation 3:19).