Celebrating Freedom in the Right Way!

This coming weekend, we as a nation will be celebrating our Independence Day (a.k.a. “The Fourth of July”). There will be fireworks, family gatherings, barbeques, and lots of flags flying. And there is much for us as nation to celebrate. The Declaration of Independence was one of the greatest statements of freedom ever made up until that time. And since gaining our independence from the British (an independence that cost the lives of hundreds of soldiers on both sides), we as a nation have experienced the greatest freedoms ever known to mankind up until that time—and in many ways since.  We’ve known a freedom that only a few throughout history have experienced—a freedom that many have only dreamed of. 

I think we need to ask, however, have we used our freedom as we ought to have used it? Might there be have been times when we as a nation have used our freedom in ways that have not best served the needs of our nation or the world at large? How about us as individuals? Have there not been times when we have used our freedom for selfish and self-centered purposes?  

I’m sure many times you have heard someone say, “It’s a free country!” when asked to restrain themselves in some way.  It might be that person who is blasting their music on the beach or who wants to smoke a cigarette in a park or restaurant (which is now illegal) or the one who insists on using foul language in a public place. In each case, they do what they want to do with little regard for those around them, using freedom as an excuse for their self-centeredness. Of course, those are just small examples of how we so easily misuse our freedom. I’m sure we can think of even more severe examples of how people want to use “freedom” as the reason for a multitude of unbiblical and immoral behaviors. They claim freedom and rights, often at the expense of the well-being of others. 

The Apostle Paul wrote to the church, “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 – NIV)  The Apostle Peter wrote, “Live as free people, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up for evil; live as God’s slaves.” (1 Peter 2:16) 

Paul’s and Peter’s point is well-taken, both inside and outside of the church. The freedom was never meant to be used to satisfy our selfish desires. Rather, freedom must always be used to serve, to give, to sacrifice, and to love. When thinking about one’s freedom, the question is not first of all, how does freedom serve me, but how can I use my freedom to serve someone else? 

As we celebrate our Independence Day as a nation, let’s give thanks for the freedoms with which we’ve been blessed. More than that, however, let’s make sure that we are using our freedom to be a blessing to those around us. Let’s celebrate freedom the right way!

Have a great day! And Happy Independence Day! 

- Pastor Tim Harris