Independence Day, the 4th of July, used to be a time to remember our country's roots, a celebration of freedom. The Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States, the Liberty Bell, and "let freedom ring" seems to be reduced to words written on old pieces of paper and unacceptable noise. Patriotism has become passé. In recent years the progressively liberal educators no longer teach history and have focused on America's flaws, such as slavery, greed, and war. They have pretty much ignored our nation's accomplishments, and consequently those who gave their lives for our freedom.
A roving reporter came up to a man on the street and said, "Do you know what two of the biggest problems in America are?" The pedestrian said, "I don't know and I don't care." "Amen" the reporter said, "You have them both." Two of the biggest problems in America: number one is ignorance and number two is apathy. So, why are people surprised when Rolling Stone magazine polled their readers on the question, "Is there anything that would motivate you to die for your country?" that 40% said no. Most youth are ignorant of America's unique spiritual heritage and have little concept of what our nation was intended to be. We've slipped a long way from the founding father's willingness to pledge their lives, their fortunes and to sacrifice everything and anything for freedom; to the arrogant spirit that permeates so many in this age. The adversary has deceived people into thinking it's just not "politically correct." That phrase "politically correct" is so devilish!
Even in Christian circles, some have bowed to political correctness. In recent years some Christian leaders have contributed to the anti-patriotic spirit by preaching that any kind of patriotic expression in a church service is inappropriate. They argue that since we worship God alone, it's idolatry to pay honor to the nation. Furthermore, since God loves people of every race, color, creed, tribe, and nation, it's blasphemous to picture God in heaven waving an American flag. Clues are being handed out: God cares. The last time I looked Joshua didn't lead the Egyptians into the Promised Land, AKA freedom. And I guess King David, a man after God's own heart, didn't care about political correctness.
1 Samuel 17:26 And David spake to the men that stood by him, saying, What shall be done to the man that killeth this Philistine, and taketh away the reproach from Israel? for who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?
And what about our countries' leaders? You don't have to love the president or the world leaders, but, my Bible still says pray for them.
1 Timothy 2:1 1I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty
Here are some things to consider as we remember our freedom and independence.
Psalm 33:12 Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance.
Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed, Nineveh was spared.
Psalm 33:14 From the place of his habitation he looketh upon all the inhabitants of the earth.
"The Lord sees all mankind." He promises to bless every nation that will honor Him as their God.
It's appropriate for the nation God blesses to give thanks. The Bible says every good and perfect gift comes from God. America is not a perfect gift but it is a really good gift. The Christians I know are not so shallow as to imagine God waving an American flag; however, we do know a good gift when we see it. It's not idolatry to give thanks for the blessings of our nation any more than it's idolatrous to give God thanks for the blessings of our families on Mother's Day. We can be unashamedly patriotic and unapologetically Christian at the same time.
No nation in the world has been more blessed than the United States of America. Anyone who has traveled to other continents is aware that we are uniquely blessed with incredible resources, breathtaking scenery, unprecedented freedom, and international influence. We have also been blessed with an outstanding governmental system that has served us well for over 200 years.
Why have we been so blessed? Are we more intelligent? More industrious? More deserving? No. We are blessed because God was honored in the founding of our country and He has kept His promise.
The fact that this country was founded on Judeo-Christian principles is so evident in early documents and inscriptions on historic buildings and monuments that it can't be denied.
Saluting the flag, standing at attention during the national anthem, singing "God bless America," and voting faithfully are all patriotic things you can do for this country. We can help America most by living a Godly life. "For the Lord loves righteousness and justice." (Psalm 33:5)
Some who sneer at nationalistic pride do so because they are convinced the only solution to global problems is a one-world government. They belittle patriotism because their hope is in the United Nations more than God and the United States. But, the Bible predicts that any attempt to govern without God is doomed to fail.
God has given us all the freedom we could ever want and eternal life.
With great freedom comes great responsibility.
Matthew 5:13 - 16 13Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. 14Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
On this 4th of July we need to recognize the men and women who have served and continue to serve our country so we can be free and also thank God for Jesus Christ and what He did for us and let the world know who the one true God is by speaking the Word of truth and letting our light shine.