4 Things to Remember on the 4th of July
It's that time of year again, the biggest party in the USA has returned! Independence Day is always a day full of celebration. But, sometimes we get so caught up in the party of the 4th of July that we forget some of the important reasons for it. I want to bring up 4 things to remember on the 4th of July.
#1. Remember the real reason we celebrate.
Although time with family, grilling out, the beach, watching fireworks and having a relaxing day are all part of the 4th of July festivities, they are not the reason for it. Military.com says the following about the 4th of July:
"On July 4, 1776, the thirteen colonies claimed their independence from England, an event which eventually led to the formation of the United States. Each year on July 4th, also known as Independence Day, Americans celebrate this historic event."
What it comes down to is the Declaration of Independence. Do you remember the document? Here's the official transcript of the Declaration of Independence. It's always great to read/remember; it's why we celebrate the 4th of July!
#2. No matter what you believe, remember to thank God for this day.
You will notice the mention of God and the Creator in the Declaration of Independence. Although people fight this point today, the United States of America was founded by people who believed in God. They were people who thanked God for where He brought us.No matter what you believe, it's a great reminder to offer-up a prayer to God. A quick "thank you, God" will suffice. This nation, given to us by God, is an incredible blessing. Even if you're not a Christian, God still listens to your prayers. (That's a post for another time.)
[easy-tweet tweet="Remember that God is listening. He hears all prayers, whether you're a Christian or not." via="no" usehashtags="no"]
#3. Remember, someone gave their life for the freedom you have today.
A few years ago, I published a post titled Remember Your Freedom, which I encourage you to take a few minutes to read. But who has a few minutes, right? Let me summarize: At some point in history, a soldier died for your freedom. That man or woman died because they told themselves that even if they were to die, it would be worth it so you could be free. That's amazing, isn't it?Give a military person a high-five, handshake or hug today!The people who served this country before us devoted their lives, so we could be what we want to be. Example: Republicans, Democrats, Independents, and people who don't care. The one thing they wanted was for us to love each other, not to hate each other.Love. Not hate... Think about that for a moment.
#4. Remember to pray for the USA.
The USA needs prayer. That seems obvious, right? Actually, not really.On paper, almost everything in this great nation appears to be improving and getting better. We have a great president right now who is making America a better place. Yet, we're unhappier and divided than ever before. The truth is, no president could fix our problems; nor is that their job. We need Jesus, we need prayer. Jesus is the only thing that is going to help the people of the USA. I'm reminded of a Bible verse that talks about this:
"If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land." - 2 Chronicles 7:14 NKJV
Let's remember to pray for the leaders of the country, the military, and our neighbor(s). After we pray, let's start loving people more and hating them less; no matter how different they are from us.
Happy 4th of July!
