As the United States celebrates Independence Day, we are reminded of the historic struggle for freedom from tyranny and the birth of a nation built on the ideals of liberty.
This July 4th, while enjoying the fireworks and festivities, let us also delve deeper into a more profound freedom—the spiritual liberty granted to us through Christ, which liberates us from the bondage of sin and empowers us to serve God wholeheartedly.
Historical and Spiritual Freedom: The celebration of Independence Day is not just about commemorating the past; it’s about appreciating the freedoms we enjoy today. However, it’s also an opportunity to reflect on the spiritual freedom we have in Christ, as taught in the Scriptures. This freedom does not absolve us from responsibility but calls us to live according to God’s will, under His guidance and laws.
Freedom in Christ – Not a License to Sin: The Apostle Paul discusses this concept extensively:
- Romans 8:1-4 explains that while we are free from the “law of sin and death” thanks to Christ, this freedom is not an excuse to ignore God’s commandments. Rather, it empowers us to live righteously, aligned with the Spirit rather than the flesh.
1Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. 2For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. 3For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh and as an offering for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh, 4so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.
The Misconception of Lawlessness: It’s crucial to understand that Christ’s fulfillment of the Law does not equate to its nullification. Christ himself adhered to these laws, setting an example for us to follow, not to discard. Jesus critiqued not the law itself but the Pharisees’ and Sadducees’ legalistic and burdensome interpretations that overshadowed its true purpose.
The Role of God’s Law: The psalmist in Psalm 119 expresses a deep love for God’s law, recognizing it as a source of wisdom, joy, and peace. These statutes are described not as burdens but as blessings that guide us toward righteousness and closer communion with God.
Psalm 119 (excerpts)
97O how I love Your law!
It is my meditation all the day.
98Your commandments make me wiser than my enemies,
For they are ever mine.
—
142Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness,
And Your law is truth.
143Trouble and anguish have come upon me,
Yet Your commandments are my delight.
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162I rejoice at Your word,
As one who finds great spoil.
163I hate and despise falsehood,
But I love Your law.
164Seven times a day I praise You,
Because of Your righteous ordinances.
165Those who love Your law have great peace,
And nothing causes them to stumble.
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171Let my lips utter praise,
For You teach me Your statutes.
172Let my tongue sing of Your word,
For all Your commandments are righteousness.
Call to Action:
- Reflect on True Freedom: Spend time this Independence Day reflecting on the freedom you have in Christ. Consider how this spiritual liberty influences your daily decisions and relationships.
- Study and Share: Dive deeper into the scriptures that discuss God’s laws and freedom in Christ. Share these insights with friends and family, perhaps during your Independence Day celebrations.
- Live Responsibly: Embrace the responsibility that comes with freedom. Make choices that reflect your commitment to God’s laws and the example set by Christ.
- Engage in Prayer and Fellowship: Use this day as an opportunity to pray for our nation and its leaders, that they may govern wisely and justly, honoring the freedoms we hold dear.
Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of freedom, both national and spiritual, through Christ our Savior. As we celebrate this Independence Day, let us remember the sacrifices made for our freedoms and the ultimate sacrifice Christ made to free us from sin. Help us to live lives worthy of this gift, guided by Your Spirit and committed to Your principles. Strengthen us to be bearers of Your light and truth in a world that deeply needs it. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.
John Golda
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