3:186 – Freedom Isn’t Free

#faithbites #faithjourney freedom

Happy Independence Day, America. This is the day back in 1776 when a bunch of traitors declared their independence from a tyrannical government. We have the country we have because of these men. Were they perfect? No. Did they implement their idea perfectly? No. Do we have a framework that can make freedom available to everyone? Yes.

We often hear that freedom isn’t free and that our men and women in uniform fight for our freedom. That is true. All of us, also have a role to play. If we want to live in a society that is free, not an isolated community of one, we all have roles and responsibilities. Some of these we like, some we don’t. Only by working together can we achieve the dream of our forefathers and God’s plan.

Scripture

• Galatians 5:13 – For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another
• 1 Peter 2:16 – Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.
• Romans 6:22 – But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves of God, the fruit you get leads to sanctification and its end, eternal life.

Reflection

We are free and forgiven by Christ. Since we are free from sin, we are slaves to God. That means we have to follow his rules and law. Meaning we should live as servants and not use that freedom for evil or sin.

This isn’t easy when we think about freedom from sin and individual freedom. They are separate in this country as not everyone believe in Christ, but for us Christians, they should be one and the same. We should make our choices as citizens of this nation and as members of God’s family.

How we seriously and active take this responsibility helps to define us as people. When we fail, Jesus forgives us. But we also shouldn’t keep dinning bit rather look to how we can use our freedom to help others.

So Happy 244th birthday America. Let’s see what we can be as a nation in another 244.

Challenge

What does it mean to be an American? How about a member of God’s family? Have you used your freedom to help others be free? Take this Fourth and fifth of July to reflect on what it means to be part of a society and family that helps each other.

Prayer

Father God, you knew what would happen yesterday, today, and know what will happen tomorrow. You have seen nations rise and fall. Help America to be the nation you want it to be. Help all of us understand that freedom isn’t free and all of us have a role to play in defending this type of life. From the front lines to our neighborhoods. We all need you in our lives. Forgive us when we mess up and help us to make sure the freedoms that you gave us and that are enshrined in our constitution are available to all people. In your name, Amen.