On the 4th of July, we celebrate the birth of a nation here in America. We enjoy fireworks, parades, barbecues, and time with family. We are blessed to live in a country where freedom is cherished…at least by most.

For those of us who are believers, our understanding of freedom goes beyond political or national liberty. We’ve been given a greater freedom—freedom in Christ. And with that freedom comes great responsibility.

Galatians 5:13 “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”  

This applies to how we live as citizens and how we live as Christians. God calls us to use our freedoms to speak truth with grace, to act justly and love mercy, to help those in need, and to stand for what is right even when it’s unpopular.

Three things this 4th of July :

1. Let’s be thankful. Let’s thank God for our country—but even more, let’s recommit ourselves to being people who live free in Christ, serving others in love, and pointing this nation back to God.
2. Let’s not take our freedom for granted.  Let’s teach the next generation to cherish and steward it wisely. It’s a platform for mission.
3. Let’s pray for our country.  Let’s pray for our leaders, regardless of political party, for unity in a time of division, for revival in our churches and communities, and for God to be honored once again at every level of society.  1 Timothy 2:1-2 — “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”