HAPPY INDEPENDANCE DAY

The 4^th of July is celebrated as the birth of the United States of America, because in 1776 Congress officially approved the Declaration of Independence.

I wonder on the 4^th of July if we remember how fortunate we are to be an American. Sad to say that most of us use the day to only enjoy barbeque, drinks and entertainment without even realizing or explaining to the next generation what being an American means.

There are so many other reason to celebrate the 4^th of July besides the birth of America. The history of our country is what has made it what it is today. We must remember the struggles we have had to overcome as a country, establishing a constitution, fighting wars that changed the world, and hanging on to what is the greatest nation in the world. We are so very blessed.

Here are a few things that I make me proud to be an American. Maybe you can add to my list!

1.      The thousands of men and women who volunteer to serve in the military to protect us.

2.      The ability to have freedom of religion, to worship God wherever and whenever I want.

3.      The freedom to speak my mind and express my opinion.

4.      The beauty all around us of what God made for us to enjoy.

5.      Americans who help those in poverty that are making a difference.

6.      Songs like “Star Spangled Banner’, “America”, and “America the Beautiful”. Makes me get goose bumps when I hear them.

7.      The ability to travel where and when I want.

8.      The resiliency of our nation to pull together after a disaster, bad economic times or any other hardship.

9.      Free enterprise where a person is allowed to own their own business, develop new products and advance technology.

10.  And, proud that I have a family, a healthy family that feels the same way, that we all love each other and work together as a family in the name of Jesus.

Let us not forget that freedom is more than just a list of things, freedom is a not found in going wherever you want or doing whatever you wish, it is a commitment. A commitment in letting yourself be wherever God places you, unwavering in your determination to be obedient to Him.

It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don't use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom. Rather, use your freedom to serve one another in love; that's how freedom grows. For everything we know about God's Word is summed up in a single sentence: Love others as you love yourself. That's an act of true freedom. Galatians 5:13-14 (MSG)

Wishing everyone a Happy 4^th of July and God Bless!

Kelly