Let us not waste our freedoms

Happy Fourth of July, everyone. I was originally going to just write a short post on Facebook, but this day deserves much more as I thought more about my post. What awesome opportunities we have as Americans, and what an incredible privilege it is to be an American. Do we actually realize that? I think we usually take it for granted, but let's think about it today.

I thank God for our country and for allowing me to have been born an American. He could have placed me anywhere in the world, but chose to let me be born in the USA. I pray I never take that for granted, and will always use it for His glory.

As Americans, we have riches and freedoms the vast majority of the world can only dream about. We must not waste it. As Christians in America we have been given much, therefore much is required. (Luke 12:48). We need to help those in need, and that includes our fellow Americans and those who are hurting, hungry, sick and lost around the world. God has blessed us with innumerable ways to spread His Gospel throughout the world. Let's don't just look inward, but look outward as well.

That's what Jesus tells us to do in His Great Commission. He says in Matthew 28:19, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." As Americans we have the means to do this more than any other nation in history. We need not waste this opportunity. As American Christians, it's our responsibility.

As we celebrate this day of independence and freedom, let's be sure to thank God for allowing us to be Americans and for every freedom we enjoy. Let's renew our commitment to living for Him and using these freedoms to bring glory to Him. Let's renew our commitment to helping our fellow Americans who are in need. Let's renew our commitment to carrying out the Great Commission here in the US and around the world.

Let's remember those who serve in our Armed Forces who protect our precious freedoms. Let's remember those who served over the course of American history and who gave their lives to give us and protect our freedoms. We must never take for granted those who put their lives on the line for our sakes and the sake of this great nation.

On this Fourth of July, let's be thankful Americans. It truly is a remarkable day. Our founding fathers knew it. I like what John Adams wrote to his wife about the signing of the Declaration of Independence. He was two days off on his prediction, but his letter reveals the significance and the foresight of those who wrote and signed the Declaration of Independence.

John Adams wrote:"The second day of July, 1776, will be the most memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance, by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty. It ought to be solemnized with pomp and parade, with shows, games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations, from one end of this continent to the other, from this time forward forever more."

Those are very profound words. Let's don't take this day for granted. Freedom is a precious thing. Let us not waste it.

Jesus gave us the ultimate freedom of forgiveness from all of our sins and the promise of everlasting life. Let's not take His freedom for granted. Let's thank Him every day and not waste it.

Happy Fourth of July. May God truly bless America again.