Independence Day
Independence day. A time we celebrate the independence of our nation. A cause to remember the many freedoms we enjoy and privileges we have as a constitutional republic, separated from the grasp of tyranny.
John Adams, a signer of the Declaration of Independence and future president of our nation predicted that Independence Day, “will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more.”
Freedom is often thought to be found in total independence from any external control or rule. True freedom is not found in absence of a controlling power, but is only found in presence of a perfect ruling power. Jesus is that righteous ruler.
Many avoid Christianity out of preference to rule their own lives. This is the essence of sin, thinking that self-sovereignty and self-determination is the ultimate source of happiness, pleasure, and empowerment. But this path is doomed to eternal failure (John 3:36, Revelation 21:8). No-one in this category is truly free. They are already internally enslaved to their passions and desires which war against their souls (James 4:1, 1 Peter 2:11). They are already externally controlled and blinded by the forces of evil in Satan and his demons (2 Timothy 2:26, 2 Corinthians 4:4).
Christianity is the only hope for true freedom. Independence from our enemies (sin, the world, and Satan) can only be obtained by the rescue, deliverance, forgiveness, and adoption by Jesus. True freedom is found under the merciful, gracious, and loving control of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. His sovereign hand perfectly guides, secures, and embraces His adopted children.
“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 ESV
Christians have received such a marvelous gift that we should remember and celebrate our salvation, or Independence Day, from the control of sin. We have a responsibility to “stand firm” and not return to our former passions and desires, disciplining our mind, heart, body, and soul to walk in holiness, righteousness, and purity. Praise God for His provision of true freedom!
“In the same way we also, when we were children, were enslaved to the elementary principles of the world. [4] But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, [5] to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons. [6] And because you are sons, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba! Father!’ [7] So you are no longer a slave, but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God.” Galatians 4:3-7 ESV