Tag: Independence Day

Let Freedom Ring

Posted on by Staci Mauney

You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Galatians 5:13–14)

Cookouts. Fireworks. Family. I have many good memories of celebrating Independence Day, a holiday when we celebrate the birth of the United States of America and all the freedoms afforded to us because of where we live. Freedoms that men and women (and their families) fought and sacrificed for, from the battlefields to the halls of Congress, from courtrooms to grassroots movements—all starting on the day in 1776 when the US declared it was no longer a colony of England but rather an independent nation. Continue reading “Let Freedom Ring” →

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” →

Freedom from Fear

Posted on by Staci Mauney

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. (Gal 5:1)

As we celebrate Independence Day here in the US, I’m reminded of my own journey to independence. A week after I turned eighteen, I attended my first day of college. I longed for independence, but I was afraid of it too—of the responsibility and all the unknowns. Continue reading “Freedom from Fear” →

Finding Freedom in Christ

Posted on by Staci Mauney

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” (2 Cor 3:17)

Each year on July 4, my thoughts turn to freedom as we celebrate America’s Independence Day. In Western culture, we use the terms “freedom” and “independence” synonymously. Because of the great blessing of living in a free country, I learned about Jesus at a young age and had no fear of repercussion from the government or anyone else. I didn’t have to worry that my family or I might go to jail for going to church or talking about Jesus. I could carry my Bible in public and wear a cross around my neck. I took this freedom for granted because it was all I had ever known. I was an adult before I learned that not all people have this type of freedom. Continue reading “Finding Freedom in Christ” →

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” →