The most quoted line from the Declaration of Independence is "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.” Our forefathers were declaring that they not only demanded freedom but also acknowledged that ultimately, freedom comes from the Lord.
On Independence Day, here are some of the freedoms we celebrate.
1. The Freedom to Live out Our Faith
In some countries, the mention of serving God or his Son means instant death. Our forefathers recognized the Creator through their extension of certain God-given rights in the Declaration of Independence. Our faith is the most important of all, as it gives us the foundation and assurance that God is in control of a world in chaos. When life seems out of control, seek the source of all creation—God. He will provide peace in the midst of all your life's storms.
2. The Freedom to Worship
We are allowed the choice to worship in any way we desire. God created us for fellowship. Our individual gifts are stronger when they are joined with our brothers and sisters in Christ. Sadly, statistics show worship attendance is in a decline as more people choose a life of independence which ultimately leads to a life of solitude.
Choose today to ask God to direct you to a Church for you to be involved in.
3. The Freedom of Prayer
Self-reliance is an American lifestyle demanded and respected. Just as this can be seen as a strength, self-reliance can also be a tremendous weakness when it leads us to put God on the sidelines of our life, and call upon him only when we need his rescue. By choosing to submit our requests to God in prayer we are making the choice to live out the faith to which he calls us.
4. The Freedom of Happiness
If you notice in the Declaration, one of the rights it defines is "the pursuit of happiness." True happiness can only be found through a personal relationship of faith in Jesus Christ. But once that relationship is established, there is no problem or difficulty that can keep you from enjoying happiness. The reason is that the happiness comes from your relationship with Christ, and no one can take that away from you.
The 56 leaders who signed the Declaration of Independence had the foresight to understand things had to change...so the generations who followed them would experience Life, Liberty, and Happiness. They accomplished this for all of us who are alive today. We must be careful to protect these freedoms for future generations to enjoy.
Independence Day is on Sunday this year. Be sure to take your family to church to celebrate the freedoms you have in Christ!
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