THANKFUL THURSDAY...Independence!

 HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY!

Today is a day of great celebration across the USA. Fireworks, picnics, swimming, pretty much whatever we feel led to do. It is a great thing to be an American. Something that I am very proud to be. And celebrating our freedom is a wonderful way to celebrate today.

Not just our freedom here in this land of the free ... but we should all be celebrating and remembering our freedom in the Lord. I have traveled too many countries where such freedom is not allowed. Bibles must be hidden. Saying you are a "Christian" will land you in jail. Missionaries spreading God's truth must be done secretly.

When I think of the word "Independence", I often think of what the world tells us. The leadership team of Burger King bought into this independent theme we have ..."Have it your way!" Having things our way goes all the way back to Adam and Eve though. Instead of doing things God's way, they wanted their Independence, Adam and Eve wanted things "their way".

In Matthew 18:3, it says,"I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven."

Those are not the words of our Forefathers. They are the words of Jesus.

The world tells us we can do anything, we are free to do as we please. But Jesus is saying that we must be dependent upon Him, His way is higher than our way. Without Him, we cannot be free. Rather than seeking and celebrating independence, I suggest that it is actually dependence that is worth celebrating. May we never forget the greatest sacrifice ever given for our freedom...the blood of Jesus!

Aren't you thankful for all the privileges and blessings that we have? Not just as Americans, but as heirs of the King!!!

I am happy to be your THANKFUL THURSDAY  host for the month of July. I look forward to hear your grateful hearts all month long!