Tag: 4th of July

Celebrating Freedom

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts.” (Ps. 119:45)

Here in the US, we celebrate our independence on July 4 with trips to the lake, family barbecues, parades, and fireworks. Some of my fondest summer memories are of family gatherings, setting off fireworks with my cousins out in the country, and attending concerts and fireworks displays with good friends.

July 4 is a celebration of freedom—freedom bought and paid for with the blood, sweat, and tears of soldiers (and their families). Because of them, we continue to have freedom of speech, freedom to worship our God, and freedom to assemble peacefully in support of various causes. Continue reading “Celebrating Freedom” →

The Blessings of Freedom

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“Out of my distress I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me free.” (Ps 118:5 ESV)

I was born and raised in one of the most blessed nations in the world. While the U.S. has its share of problems – just turn on the news and you’ll be bombarded by them – I’m so thankful to live here. I’ve listed just a few reasons why this country means so much to me. Continue reading “The Blessings of Freedom” →

Freedom

Posted on by Staci Mauney

This post was originally published on July 4, 2011.

“They promise them freedom, while they themselves are slaves of depravity—for ‘people are slaves to whatever has mastered them.’” (2 Peter 2:19)

Freedom is a term that’s tossed around a lot this time of year as we celebrate Independence Day in the United States. But what does true freedom mean? Does it mean that we’re free to do whatever we want, no matter the cost to others?

Society would have us believe that’s true, but true freedom means stripping ourselves of our pride and selfishness. When we believe in Christ, our sins are forgiven, but that doesn’t mean that we’re allowed to do anything we want.

There is a great responsibility that comes along with this freedom. As believers, we’re required to live our lives in such a way that those around us can see Christ’s love through us. However, when we focus on ourselves, we put our own selfish desires first, thinking that we’ll simply ask for forgiveness later.

When we realize that true freedom doesn’t give us the right to demand anything from God, we can turn to God and ask him for forgiveness. When our focus is turned inward, we can’t help those around us because we’re blinded to their needs. But when we begin to understand that being free means we must change our focus, we will begin to put the needs of others first. We will serve God where he wants us, and we’ll show his love to those around us.

Dear Jesus, thank you for the true freedom that’s found only in you. Help me to change my focus from me-centered to others-centered so that those around me can see your presence in my life. Amen.