We who live in the United States have much to be grateful for, even in these tumultuous times. As a nation, we enjoy freedoms that others only dream about and seek. We have the freedom to pursue life, liberty, and happiness; the freedom to speak openly, worship God, and live the American dream.
How was all this made possible? It was made possible by those who believed by faith that this type of freedom could be obtained and should be obtained. The Declaration of Independence reads with such fervor and faith: “When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature’s God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.
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…”
Fifty-six men signed the Declaration of Independence. Their conviction resulted in untold suffering for themselves and their families. Of the 56 men, five were captured by the British, twelve had their homes ransacked and burned, and two lost their sons in the Revolutionary Army. Another had two sons captured. Nine of the fifty-six fought and died from wounds or hardships of the war. In all, 25,324 Americans gave their lives for independence.
As we think about the days we live in, it certainly is advisable to contemplate our roots and the words of our founders. But even more so, I believe we need to contemplate what God says, understanding that no person is free to do whatever he pleases. God has given His righteous law to guide us, reveal how we can know Him, be right with Him, and how to treat our neighbor. He has also placed civil authorities to uphold laws so we might live peacefully – Romans 13:1-4. The Bible says that to reject and disregard God and His law is sin. We continue to see what the world is like when it totally disregards God and His law.
Why should we care about this? Is it because of all that is going on in the world? No! It is because God tells us he will judge all sin – Romans 3:23: “The wages of sin is death.” This means separation from Him for all eternity in judgment. God must judge sin if He is righteous. Gratefully, He is also loving and provides forgiveness. This forgiveness came at a great cost. Remember, freedom is never free. Jesus paid the wages of our sin and offers forgiveness. How do we receive it? John 3:16 tells us, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” Remember, sin leads to destruction and death away from God. Jesus leads to life, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” – John 10:10.
As you think about the freedoms you enjoy in this great nation, ask yourself, “Am I free from the wages of sin?” If not, you are not truly free. God’s Word is clear: “For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23.
Would you like to know more about making plans? Contact us at 425-432-0634 or www.taylorcreekchurch.org. We would love to talk to you about the hope we have in Christ. You can join us every Sunday at 9 AM for Sunday School and 10:15 AM for Worship. 21110 244th Ave. S.E., Maple Valley.
