Is National Pride in the Bible?

How should a Christian—one who believes and follows the true teachings of Jesus Christ—view national pride? Is “Christian nationalism” God’s intent? Should we celebrate national holidays? What are our obligations as citizens or residents of the country we call home?

Some use the term “national pride” or say they are “proud to be” an American or a citizen of whichever other country they hail from. But the word pride has different meanings. For instance, a person can “take pride” in their work and accomplishments or gratefully recognize the value of living in a nation that provides freedoms and prosperity. But pride can also mean conceit, arrogance or boasting, feeling superior, and having disdain for those regarded as less fortunate—all of which is condemned by God’s word.

“Christian nationalism” can mean different things to different people but generally postulates that America was founded as a Christian nation and seeks to uphold Christian values. It marries national identity to the Christian religion. Is that the source of national pride and purpose of celebrating national holidays?

A Christian should profess that his or her allegiance is first to God. The motto, “For God and Country,” states God first. As stated by the Apostle Paul, “our citizenship is in heaven, from which we also eagerly wait for the Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ” (Philippians 3:20). Jesus said His kingdom was not of this world (John 18:36), and the Apostle Peter describes God’s church as “a holy nation, His own special people… who once were not a people but are now the people of God…” (1 Peter 2:9–10). In Acts 17:26, we learn that all who dwell in every nation are made of “one blood” and that God determined national boundaries as He willed.

Too many are overly confident in America’s military might, strong economy, and blessings of natural resources and abundant crops. One should never mistakenly assume this came about solely by American ingenuity, prowess, ability, and effort. These were blessings from the Creator God. Regarding the military, “No king is saved by the multitude of an army; a mighty man is not delivered by great strength. A horse is a vain hope for safety; neither shall it deliver any by its great strength” (Psalm 33:16–17). But a nation whose God is the Lord is blessed (v. 12).

A nation’s civil holidays may be about various historical events. Before participating in the holiday celebration, a Christian should consider whether the customary celebrations and ways of expressing the holiday violate any of God’s commands. Is the celebration wholesome and honorable? If the observance leads to over-indulgences or sinful behaviors, a Christian should not participate. “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people” (Proverbs 14:34).

God’s church is made up of members of various ethnicities who live in many different nations. Peter explains that we are “sojourners and pilgrims” (1 Peter 2:11) and we should “submit yourselves to every ordinance… whether to the king as supreme, or to governors” (vv. 13–14). And finally, he explains that we should “honor all people… honor the king” (v. 17). In essence, we are to be law-abiding residents of whatever nation we live in and also remember that we are citizens of God’s kingdom. Whether living in our nation as citizens or visitors, we should “be subject to the governing authorities” (Romans 13:1). We are to be law-abiding citizens or visitors, pay required taxes and customs, and give honor to whom honor is due (vv. 5–7).

Paul also said, “we are ambassadors for Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:20). An ambassador is a representative of a foreign nation while living in a host nation and working at his nation’s embassy. This is an analogy of what it means to be a Christian living in this world.

Whatever the civil holidays are in your nation, these are some things to consider. You may find the article “American Liberty: Its Promise and Its Price” in the 2026 July-August issue of Tomorrow’s World magazine of interest. Also, be sure to check out the keystone study guide The United States and Great Britain in Prophecy.