The United States was founded on the principle of dissent culminating in the Revolutionary War to gain independence from British rule. The Founding Fathers emphasized individual liberty and the idea that governance requires the consent of the governed. They believed in the natural right to think, speak and act without fear of hindrance or restraint. These principles remain fundamental to our American ideals.
These American ideals can be seen through the lens of Biblical truths. By reviewing the preambles of The Declaration of the United States and The United States Constitution, we see that this nation has been the beneficiary of God’s purpose for us. Words such as created, liberty, and pursuit reflect this in the opening lines of the Declaration of Independence and in the Constitution of the United States, one will discover the words justice, tranquility, welfare and establish.
God created humanity in His own image (Genesis 1:26) with the intention that we would walk in freedom (Micah 6:8, Psalm 119:45) alongside Him in the garden. Despite sin interrupting this plan, God brings order out of chaos. He established His people (Psalm 37:23) and promised them a designated land. Through the lineage of Abraham, a King for all nations was promised. In Ezekiel 34:25-30, the Lord establishes a covenant of peace with His people, promising to bless and prosper them, ensuring their security, sustenance, and protection from nations that seek to enslave them.
This nation enables us to embrace a life of liberty. We enjoy peace, opportunities for prosperity, and most of us live securely, empowered by the freedoms our government guarantees. However, this abundance might lead us to overlook the true freedom offered by God. Jesus Christ provides genuine freedom through His death and resurrection. 2 Corinthians 3:17 declares, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” Galatians 5:1 urges us not to return to the yoke of slavery, for Christ has set us free.
Living in this land of freedom grants us the ability to think, speak, and act according to our choices. As Americans, we can serve others and worship freely. We should be grateful for the abundance God has blessed us with, yet He promises even more. Scripture assures us in Daniel 2:44 that “the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall never be destroyed, nor shall its sovereignty be left to another people.” In His Kingdom, Jesus has prepared a place for us, going ahead of us to make ready for our arrival. He created us to dwell in His Kingdom.
In addition to these inherent rights, there are also responsibilities. God calls us to live a life of faith and service, using the gifts He has bestowed upon us to strengthen the Body of Christ. As we celebrate Independence Day and the numerous freedoms we enjoy, I urge everyone to express gratitude to our Heavenly Father who, in His mercy, has endowed this nation with these freedoms.
In Christ’s love,
Tracey
Komen