“For you are great and do wondrous things; you alone are God.”

Psalm 86:10

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. Preamble to the Declaration of Independence

It’s Independence Day.

This is number 246.

How does a nation of diverse people hold together for 246 years? How is it possible to maintain a shared vision of what is truth among so many different backgrounds and beliefs? Why hasn’t the United States of America ceased to exist-long ago? Why haven’t strife and conflict torn apart the union of states first celebrated in 1776?

Wars, corruption, greed and sinful hearts could have brought America to final destruction-many times. You and I are unaware of the many close calls America has had…that’s a good thing. Call it one of God’s blessings.

It’s Independence Day. Eat a burger, enjoy a crisp bite of cold watermelon, wave a flag…hug your loved ones.

While celebrating today-wonder about freedom.

From where does freedom come?

Our rights and freedoms come from God. Life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness are God’s gifts to us. It is God who controls them. Give thanks, we enjoy them today as the first Americans did 246 years ago.

You’ve got celebrating to do.

But just one more thing.

Why has God endowed us with life, liberty and the opportunity for happiness?

There is a one-word answer: Love.

Mixed in with all of today’s events: flags fireworks, food, fun and fellowship with family and friends is an eternal truth that changes everything: God so loved the world that He sent Jesus to die for our sins. This means we can delight in this Independence Day knowing that our unalienable rights are secure FOREVER in Jesus. Great as it is, America is not the reason for our hope. God alone is the ONE who does great and wondrous things. His love for us in Jesus Christ is freedom today and freedom forever.  

Happy 4th of July!

(flag image: wallpapersafari.com )