The 4th of July has always been a special day for me and my family because it was my grandmother's birthday. We were always with my extended family on this day because we would celebrate my grandmother's birthday and spend the entire day visiting, relaxing, swimming, eating, going on hayrides, riding quads, and finally, watching fireworks. We still continue to do all of these things, and today my grandmother would have turned 90 years old if she were still alive. Unfortunately, she passed away six years ago this month.
On July 4th, we, as a nation, celebrate the fact that we are an independent country, and we also honor all of those who have given their lives for the cause of our freedom. I also want us to remember that there are men and women serving right now to protect us and our freedoms, and we should continue to pray for them.
However, as I read the phrase, "Happy Independence Day," in the news paper today, I clearly sensed the Holy Spirit speaking to my heart. I in no way wish to demean to true meaning of this national holiday, but this word came to my heart that said, "Yes, it is "Independence Day," but you need to live "in dependence" on Me. Celebrate the fact that each day can be your own "in dependence" day, and you don't have to live on your own work and wisdom. There were many who had to lay down their lives in the fight for independence from another nation so that you could live freely, and now many hold independence up as an idol in this country. But, my son had to lay down his life for your eternal freedom so that you are now free to live "in dependence" on me because you are my child."
Wow, to celebrate being "in dependence" on someone or something else seems so undesirable to many in our society today. In many ways, it seems undesirable to me, too, because it goes against my sense of pride. But God's word tells us to, "Humble ourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift us up in due time." 1Peter 5:6 If I want to be lifted up, I must humble myself. Doesn't that seem so backwards to our world's thinking today?
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