Freedom of Choice

Our Constitution guarantees a broad spectrum of freedoms. Every Fourth of July we celebrate the ultimate sacrifices men and women made to gain and sustain these freedoms. At this moment many serve in harm’s way to protect those privileges. Realizing how God has blessed us, we should celebrate with thanksgiving.

One of our most valued freedoms is the freedom to make choices, but some things can’t be chosen. Our biological parents and genetic make-up were not within our power to choose. The environment where we grew up and the ways in which we were parented were also beyond our choice, but every day we do make critically important choices.

Freedom of choice is an inherent source of joy and a treasured reason to celebrate. Psalm 66 poses this invitation and choice. “Come and see what God has done, how awesome his works are on man’s behalf. Come and rejoice in him.” When you choose Christ Jesus as your Lord and Savior, you have reason to rejoice.  

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Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave of sin. A slave is not a permanent member of the family, but a son is part of the family forever. So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.

~John 8:34-36 New Living Translation

Join Hands and Celebrate God's Good Gifts

Throughout history mankind has devised ways to celebrate life. Douglas Jerrold, the British playwright, humorously said of the English people, “If an earthquake were to swallow up our property tomorrow, my people would meet and dine somewhere in the rubbish to celebrate the event.” God is especially honored when we celebrate his intervention in our lives.

When I was in the military, I attended a church whose mission was to provide a home for young men and women serving their country. At the close of our Bible study, we would join hands and celebrate by singing, “Blest be the tie that binds our hearts in Christian love. The fellowship of kindred minds is like to that above.”

Jesus in Matthew 5:12 commands us to “rejoice and be glad” even in difficult, hard times. You can do this seemingly impossible task by staying focused on the Lord God, who gives more than life itself. “For my God shall supply your every need according to the riches of his glory by Christ Jesus.”  

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Tell the heavens and the earth to celebrate and sing;

command every mountain to join in the song.

The Lord’s people have suffered,

but he has shown mercy and given them comfort.

~Isaiah 49:13 Contemporary English Version

Let your hope keep you joyful, be patient in your troubles, and pray at all times.

~Romans 12:12 Good News Bible