Word of the Week - Freedom (Independence Day)
“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” — 2 Corinthians 3:17
July 4th – Independence Day – marks the moment in 1776 when America officially declared independence from Great Britain. Despite the turmoil and division we see today, we must still recognize the blessing of living in this great nation and thank God for His hand over the United States these past 247 years. We have much to celebrate.
Our family celebrated Independence Day in Dauphin Island, Colony Cove Community (CCV) this year, a community we recently joined. CCV has an annual tradition that includes a family parade through the community ending at the flagpole where we all recited the pledge of allegiance and sang the Star-Spangled Banner. CCV ended the afternoon with BBQ at the pool and fireworks, see parade pic attached. It was a great and memorable day!
The Price and Value of Freedom:
Beyond the fireworks and festivities, July 4th should be a day of remembrance and gratitude. The freedom we enjoy came at a high price—countless lives sacrificed over generations to secure and defend our rights. As Americans, we are blessed to live in a land that values individual liberty. The Declaration of Independence boldly proclaims, “all men are created equal” and “endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights,” including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. These truths must not be taken for granted.
The Responsibility of Freedom:
Freedom also comes with responsibility. President Reagan warned that it’s never more than one generation from extinction and must be fought for and preserved. Spiritually, Christ paid the ultimate price for our eternal freedom—freedom from sin and death. “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free” (Gal. 5:1). But this freedom isn't about independence from God—it’s about dependence on Him. In John 15:5, Jesus reminds us that we must abide in Him to bear fruit. Through Him, we are freed not for selfish gain but to love and serve others (Gal. 5:13).
A Grateful Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the freedoms we enjoy—freedom of belief, worship, prayer, and speech. Help us steward them well and honor the sacrifices made to secure them. Most of all, thank You for the freedom we have through Christ’s sacrifice, granting us eternal life and peace.
Challenge Question:
How are you actively using your freedom—in both your country and your faith—to serve others, honor God, and advance His kingdom?
God Bless you and God Bless America, the land of the Free!!