Pocket Theology / Reflections of the Lord's Prisoner

Those who are close to me are well aware that one of my favorite days each year is the 4th of July. Today is no exception, especially as we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our founding fathers signing the Declaration of Independence. Whether it was the parades or the fireworks that first brought me to love this day, I cannot remember. But what I do know is that today, I am a patriot who loves my country (flaws and all).

Independence Day continues to be a day that I love celebrating as I realize how much I enjoy the freedoms and privileges I have and how blessed I am to have been born in this One Nation Under God.Yet, despite my love for freedom and patriotism, I realize that as a Christian, my freedom would be a waste if I did not use the opportunities I have to serve the Lord boldly and faithfully.

1 It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery… 13 For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

Galatians 5:1, 13 (NASB95)

So what does it mean for Christians to live in full appreciation of our freedom in Christ? Even more than a general gratefulness, it means that I use the liberty I have to submit myself to the service of the Lord. I do not serve the Lord under compulsion, but in recognition that Christ has set me free from the bondage and slavery to sin. Like any declaration of freedom, this implies that there will be resistance from the forces that would like to keep the masses under their rule, and the spiritual realm is no different.

Satan is the ruling force in this world. He would love nothing more than to distract you and keep you from making the most of your freedom in Christ. The overly busy Christian and the lazy Christian are both equally ineffective at fulfilling the purposes of God in their lives. We must acknowledge the presence of our enemy and his temptations that would cause us to focus on ourselves or even the worries of the world. But we do are to do this with full confidence that we have victory over sin and temptation because of Christ. In Christ, we do not ever have to give back into our sinful tendencies, we are free.

10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you will be able to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.

Ephesians 6:10–12

As you spend the day with family and friends, whether at a parade or by the grill, do not forget the great gift of independence we have, and the price that has been paid to secure it by our many brave and honorable service men and women. Freedom is not free. Yet as we celebrate, do not forget to take a moment to thank God for our greater freedom in Christ!