Your Personal Independence Day

On July 4th, Americans celebrate their independence. 235 years ago, citizens of the colonies rose together against tyranny. Like all wars, the American Revolution was risky and costly. It tested the commitment and perseverence of every individual, and used all resources available. There were times of great optimism, but many of fear and despair as well. That's how revolutions go. But in the end, freedom was worth it. Today, I urge you to declare your own Independence Day–not politically, but spiritually.

On July 4th, Americans celebrate their independence. 235 years ago, citizens of the colonies rose together against tyranny. Like all wars, the American Revolution was risky and costly. It tested the commitment and perseverence of every individual, and used all resources available. There were times of great optimism, but many of fear and despair as well. That's how revolutions go. But in the end, freedom was worth it. Today, I urge you to declare your own Independence Day–not politically, but spiritually.

Revolution starts with chafing against tyranny. In daily life, it's surprisingly easy to overlook or tolerate the power that controls our lives. What controls you? Old habits, bitter grudges, debt? Survival skills that turned against you long ago? Relationships that bring out the worst in you? In this fallen world, the Enemy, the world, our own flesh strive to rule over us.

We let sins and encumberences into our lives, not recognizing that they are not-so-benevolent dictators. In a speech delivered to the Virginia Convention on March 23, 1775, patriot Patrick Henry called for awareness: "Mr. President, it is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren till she transforms us into beasts….For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth, to know the worst, and to provide for it." Until we recognize that we are not free, we will not feel the urgency of revolution.

Once we recognize our tyrants, we have to go full in. Wars aren't won casually or by the half-committed. When independence becomes urgent, we have to be determined to fight, even when it's costly or difficult, because that's the price of freedom. As Henry said in the same speech, "Gentlemen may cry, Peace, Peace–but there is no peace. The war is actually begun!… Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God!" 

Scripture calls us to arms in Hebrews 12:1: "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, we must get rid of every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and run with endurance the race set out for us". Thankfully, in the Christian's fight against the tyranny of flesh, we are not alone, and we will not face death. The power of the Holy Spirit indwells us, the great cloud of witnesses surround us, the Body of Christ supports us, Scripture guides us. We can rally the troops and devote our resources, fighting fiercely, knowing that the battle has already been won. "For I am sure of this very thing, that the one who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus." (Phil 1:6).

Sometimes, we'll be full of hope and optimism. Other times, we'll feel defeated and want to surrender, but we can fight on, knowing that freedom is our divine destiny. The Father wills our independence from these hindrances, and that we would be conformed to the One who leads us: "those whom [God] foreknew he also predestined to be conformed to the image of his Son…."(Rom 8:29)

Happy Independence Day! Paul reminds us, "For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not be subject again to the yoke of slavery."(Gal 5:1), or as Patrick Henry ended his speech, "I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!"