“I have the right to do anything,” you say—but not everything is beneficial. “I have the right to do anything”—but I will not be mastered by anything. —1 Corinthians 6:12
Today is Independence Day. Every year on this day, we celebrate our freedom as a nation and as individuals. Recognizing and appreciating our freedom is important, because it came at a high price. Because courageous people were willing to stand up to tyranny and start a new nation, modern Americans have rights and liberties they might not have otherwise. Our country is unique, because it’s one of the few countries where everyone can worship, work and live as they like, without fear. However, with freedom comes responsibility. As Paul explains in 1 Corinthians 6:12, just because you have the right to do anything doesn’t always mean you should. Today, many Americans need to remember this truth. Sometimes consciously and sometimes not, we abuse our rights and freedoms. We disrespect our fellow people, engage in sin and don’t live the lives God has called us to live. What life is that, though? What’s true freedom? The Bible teaches that true freedom doesn’t come from physical independence. It comes from knowing we belong to Christ and serve Him first. Some people believe serving Christ will make them slaves instead of free. However, Christ’s service is a regimen of love, honesty and acceptance. In Christ, you’ll be freer than you’ve ever been. This Independence Day, rejoice in physical freedom. However, be cognizant of any spiritual yokes that keep you from feeling free inside. If you have these, ask Christ to lift them and replace them with His yoke of true independence. Request discernment, and then you’ll know how to embrace your freedoms without abusing them, as well as how to love God and others.
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