"The Christian American Independence Day"
On July 4th, the United States of America will honor the adoption of the Declaration Of Independence by the Continental Congress and It's signing in Philadelphia on July 4, 1776 by John Hancock and Charles Thompson. This is our great nation's annual celebration of freedom and independence from the rule of Great Britain. Are we really aware of the awful price that has been paid for our liberty? John Henry's famous quote should be stamped on the heart of every citizen, "Give me liberty or give me death!"
This wonderful American document of freedom is based on the Divine Biblical truth that there is one God who has lovingly created all human beings. It begins and ends with references to God, who alone gives us our human rights and supreme value. Here is just one example taken form the declaration: "We hold these truths to be self evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness." Thank God for America and thank God that we are blessed to live here!
For Christian Americans (and Christians worldwide) every day is Independence Day! Each Sunday we begin our week by gathering together to eat the Lord's Supper in memory of the crucified, risen and exalted Jesus Christ! In this assembly we celebrate our freedom from the power of Satan, sin and death, to serve the true and living God! Paul speaks of all those who united with Christ in baptism saying, "But thanks be to God, that though you used to be slaves to sin, you wholeheartedly obeyed the form of teaching to which you were entrusted. You have been made free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness." Rom.6:17-18.
These special days of celebration are set aside so we will never forget the great price that has been paid for this freedom, or simply begin to take it all for granted. But they also call us to a higher standard of living and personal integrity too! As Christian Americans, we can show our deep gratitude by living in such a way that honors our United States Of America and glorifies the all powerful, holy God who has graciously given us all life and the liberty to govern ourselves with justice for all under Him!
Here are two Bible Scriptures that I believe are especially relevant for those blessed as Christians living in America. These principles should govern our hearts to live honorably as citizens of the USA and citizens of Heaven as well. King Solomon wisely speaks to the nation of Israel in the Old Testament saying, "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people." Prov.14:34. In the New Testament, the apostle Peter admonishes every Christian to, "Live as free men, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as servants of God."
Brother Danny