Independence Day, the Fourth of July, the day we celebrate America as a great, free nation. The fireworks, the parades, the family get-togethers. It’s all good.

Except that so many are not free. They continue to live lives consumed by guilt and shame over things done long ago (or just yesterday).

Others are in chains as a result of broken relationships, indebtedness, depression or unresolved anger.

There are so many things that seek to destroy our freedom, but Paul wrote in Galatians 5:1 “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.”

When we turn away from all of the human vices and devices that threaten us and give ourselves wholeheartedly to the love of Jesus Christ, then and only then, are we truly free.

In the midst of celebration, keep in mind that God, through Christ, loves you very much and wants the best for you. Bow before Him, give yourself to Him and you will be truly free and truly blessed. Pastor Jim.