Galatians 5:13
On this Independence Day weekend, Americans from coast to coast are celebrating freedom. On July 4, 1776, the Continental Congress introduced to the world the Declaration of Independence and proclaimed the American colonies free from the British Empire's repressive rule.

Believers in the United States of America have another "Independence Day" to celebrate: the day they received Jesus Christ and obtained freedom from the penalty of sin and entered into a relationship with God.

• All of Scripture points to the need for reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:20, 21
• God sent His only Son to pay sin's penalty so that we can be reconciled with Him. John 3:16
• Jesus willingly gave up His life to purchase our salvation. John 10:18
• We are forever set free from the penalty of sin. Romans 6:23
• We can now share in the inheritance of God's people. Colossians 1:12
• We are set free to serve God. Romans 6:18

We must never take for granted our spiritual freedom, which Jesus purchased at a great price. The liberty to exercise that spiritual freedom—going to church, praying, and worshiping God—is also a precious gift. This weekend, let's give thanks to God and celebrate our freedom as United States citizens in the Lord; accept the biblical responsibility to pray for America and its leaders; and freely share the Good News with others so they too can celebrate eternal citizenship in the Kingdom of God.

. . . If the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed. John 8:36

God bless you!
Pastor Jeff



© 2007 St. Louis Family Church. All rights reserved. No part of this article may be reprinted or distributed in any form without prior written permission of St. Louis Family Church. Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture references are from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation.