Saturday's Snippet

Galatians 5:1

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.

Good morning, one and all; and a Happy Independence Day to all of you!

As I was looking for facts regarding the history of this patriotic holiday, I discovered two important things. One, July 4, 1776, was the day that the final wording of the Declaration of Independence was approved; secondly, July 4th was not declared a national holiday until 1870, almost one hundred years after it was signed. Thus, we have a holiday to celebrate each year. 

Independence - what's the meaning of the word? It means, "freedom from the control, influence, support, aid, or the like, of others". America wanted freedom from the control of Great Britain, and through much blood, sweat, and tears they won their independence.

The privileges we have held so dear in the wonderful United States of America are slowly being tainted and torn from our grasp as evil prevails in our land. Our forefathers paid an enormous price to build "one nation under God." I am very patriotic at heart but I am also quite saddened at the sinful changes taking place in my home country. 

Can there be a comparison between our natural independence and spiritual independence? I believe so. Years have passed since I "signed" my spiritual Declaration of Independence, when I repented of my sins at an old-fashioned altar, declaring before God that my life was now His, and releasing me from the power of Satan forever! Through baptism in the lovely Name of Jesus Christ, my sins were remitted, and I was covered by His blood. Power came to me when I spoke with other tongues as the Holy Ghost came in. It still thrills me, and brings tears to my eyes. I am free from the bondage of sin. Liberated to serve Jesus Christ for the rest of my life!

I love the freedom I have known in America, but I cherish spiritual freedom so much more. 

Let me leave you with the words of a dear old song, I'm Free, written by Joe Tate:

Verse One

So long I had searched for life's meaning

Enslaved by the world and my greed

Then the door of my prison was opened by love

For the ransom was paid - I was free

Chorus

I'm free from the fear of tomorrow

I'm free from the guilt of the past

For I've traded my shackles for a glorious song

I'm free! Praise the Lord! Free at last!

Verse Two

I'm free from the guilt that I carried

From that dull empty life I'm set free

For when I met Jesus, He made me complete

He forgot how foolish I used to be

Enjoy this holiday, honoring those who paid a price for our liberty in America, but take the time to really celebrate your spiritual freedom!

Until tomorrow, Lord willing..............