'We are so blessed to live in a free country.' We hear phrases like this, yet it’s so easy to take this gift for granted.
The beautiful thing is that all followers of Jesus have freedom in Christ regardless of where they live in the world or the type of government that rules over them. However, we celebrate here in America this time of year because we get to live out that freedom uniquely.
Did you know there are parts of the world where it is illegal to speak of Jesus or own a Bible? Living in America, we have the freedom to meet as a Body of Believers, worship Jesus freely, and share the gospel, among many other things. Let’s praise God for this truth! And as you celebrate this Independence Day, here are some Scriptures and guided prayers to help you.
1. So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free. – John 8:36
Lord, thank you for the true liberty that you offer me! I know that my freedom doesn’t come from the country I live in but from my status as a redeemed child of God. Protect me from putting my identity in any worldly freedom that can’t sustain me. Instead, help me to walk in your truth with joy today!
2. For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love. – Galatians 5:13
Thank you, Father, that freedom, much like grace, is a gift from you. I know I need to choose to walk in that truth daily instead of getting bogged down by the lies of Satan, who tries to weigh me down with guilt and shame. I need your help to not get caught up in this bondage. Lord, help me honor you with my freedom, using it to bless and serve others. I know this will reap a harvest of joy.
3. God places the lonely in families; he sets the prisoners free and gives them joy. – Psalm 68:6
Lord, when I don’t feel very blessed or joyful, I ask that you remind me I am a part of your family, liberated from any slavery. Please heal me in the areas I need, encourage me with your truth, and put others around me to help me walk in your freedom today.
4. Against its will, all creation was subjected to God’s curse. But with eager hope, the creation looks forward to the day when it will join God’s children in glorious freedom from death and decay. – Romans 8:20-21
Heavenly Father, looking around at everything going on in our country, it can get discouraging sometimes. I see so much brokenness and tension. Sometimes it’s hard to believe we live in a free country when there are so many who are trapped in bondage. But, I need your sweet reminder that this is not the end of the story. Help me hold onto the hope of the gospel and have the courage to proclaim it to others.
5. And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. – Philippians 4:19
I praise you, God, that you are not only a chain breaker who frees me from sin and shame but a good Father who delights in providing for my every need. Help me remember that you still love and care for me in seasons of struggle. When I grow discouraged, provide me with the peace and strength that are also free gifts from you. Help me not compare my situation to others but humbly walk in gratitude and joy.
6. And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. – 2 Corinthians 9:8
Father, I trust in you alone. Please bless me with a generous heart to be able to give to others from the overflow of what you have given me. Thank you for providing for me daily. I’m so thankful that you meet my needs as the loving Father. Help me to joyfully celebrate that, and to have your eyes to see others I can be a blessing to today.
7. Come, let us sing to the Lord! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come to him with thanksgiving. Let us sing psalms of praise to him. – Psalm 95:1-2
Thank you, Lord, that one of the many blessings you have granted me within this country is that I can worship you freely! May I never take this for granted. Show me how to praise you in every season, in every situation, and may your Spirit fill me with joy as I do so.
8. So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law. – Galatians 5:1
Lord, thank you for the simplicity of the gospel; I am saved through faith by your grace alone. I can’t earn it! God, help me remember this when I get caught up trying to achieve your favor. Help me enjoy the blessings of the freedom you bought for me and live in gratitude that you have placed me in a country that allows me to express that openly.
9. I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. – Philippians 4:11-13
Amidst the many blessings in this country, Lord, it is easy to compare me to others and feel I never have enough. Protect me from envy and from discouragement. I ask you to provide me with joy and contentment in Christ alone. I know that only from that place will I be able to enjoy every blessing you have in store for me. I ask that you provide for my needs and give me strength in waiting.
