4th of July and our Independence

Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a celebrated federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. On July 2, 1776 legal separation of the American colonies from the kingdom of Great Britain occurred, declaring freedom from their tyrannical rule. Afterwards, the Second Continental Congress debated and revised the Declaration, finally approving it on July 4th. 

Galatians 5 verse 1 says:

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. (NIV)
   
Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (KJV)
   
It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. (NAS)

Freedom comes with a price... 

Jesus Christ bought our freedom with his own blood. The Apostle Paul writes, "...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23); "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8); "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23).

We have a responsibility as Christians to uphold a different standard and to be an example to the world around us. We are light and salt (Matthew 5:13-16) 

Liberty sets us free...

Roy Lessin had this to say about liberty:  
"As the heart of the country breaks, God calls His people to open up a healing stream of love and prayer. Pray that broken hearts will turn to Him for healing, that grieving hearts will turn to Him for comfort, and that lost hearts will turn to Him for the gift of salvation that is in Jesus Christ alone. His grace is still being extended, His mercies are still new every morning, and His arms are still outstretched to embrace very hurting heart."

The following 3 minute video is of a Harvard Business School professor, Dr. Clay Christensen, giving a very sobering viewpoint of what happens when we as a nation forsake our foundation of faith. Anne Graham Lotz wrote a Charisma Podcast Network article here in which she boldly implies we have a choice that faces us today as a nation: Would we implode and disintegrate emotionally and spiritually?





Christ can restore our nation...

Pray that our nation will turn back to God.  Pray that our hedge of protection and blessing will be restored once again.  Pray for revival and a renewed interest in the things of God.  Pray for God's influence to permeate every aspect of our culture, politics, and national dialog.

"If My people, which are called by My name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land."  (II Chronicles 7:14)

Don't take your freedom for granted. Celebrate this Independence Day knowing that God makes a way for your liberty to be possible - even in a sin-filled world. Jesus Himself declared, “Therefore, if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.“ (John 8:36)

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.   Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

4th of July and our Independence

Happy 4th of July !!

This summer has been extremely busy.  I fully intend on resuming a regular posting schedule on my Blog soon.  In the meantime - please enjoy this rerun from last summer...

Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a celebrated federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. 

On July 2, 1776 legal separation of the American colonies from the kingdom of Great Britain occurred, declaring freedom from their tyrannical rule. Afterwards, the Second Continental Congress debated and revised the Declaration, finally approving it on July 4th. 

Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, political speeches, ceremonies, and various other public and private events celebrating the United States of America’s history, government, and traditions.

Freedom isn't free - it cost Jesus everything... 

"Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." 
(II Corinthians 3:17)  We are free to be “re-made” – changed into a new creature in Christ.

"For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God." (Romans 8:20-21).

Galatians 5:1 says this:

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. (NIV)

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (KJV)

 It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. (NAS)

Don't take your freedom for granted... 

Now for a little fun... 
Madagascar 3  featured Katy Perry singing Firework Here are some of the lyrics...

Firework

Do you ever feel like a plastic bag,

drifting through the wind

wanting to start again?

Do you ever feel, feel so paper thin

like a house of cards,

one blow from caving in?

Do you ever feel already buried deep?

6 feet under screams but no one seems to hear a thing

Do you know that there's still a chance for you?

'Cause there's a spark in you

You just gotta ignite, the light, and let it shine

Just own the night like the 4th of July

'Cause baby you're a firework

Come on, show 'em what you're worth

Make 'em go "Oh, Oh, Oh"

As you shoot across the Sky -y -y

Baby, you're a firework
Come on, let your colors burst
Make 'em go "Oh, Oh, Oh"
You're gonna leave 'em falling down -own - own ...

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  

Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

Happy 4th of July !!

4th of JULY - Fireworks, Burgers & Apple Pie

Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a celebrated federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. 

On July 2, 1776 legal separation of the American colonies from the kingdom of Great Britain occurred, declaring freedom from their tyrannical rule. Afterwards, the Second Continental Congress debated and revised the Declaration, finally approving it on July 4th. 

Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, political speeches, ceremonies, and various other public and private events celebrating the United States of America’s history, government, and traditions.

Freedom isn't free - it cost Jesus everything... 

"Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." 
(II Corinthians 3:17)  We are free to be “re-made” – changed into a new creature in Christ.

"For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God." (Romans 8:20-21).

Galatians 5:1 says this:

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. (NIV)

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (KJV)

 It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. (NAS)

Don't take your freedom for granted... 



Now for a little fun... 
Madagascar 3  featured Katy Perry singing Firework Here are some of the lyrics...

Firework

Do you ever feel like a plastic bag,

drifting through the wind

wanting to start again?

Do you ever feel, feel so paper thin

like a house of cards,

one blow from caving in?

Do you ever feel already buried deep?

6 feet under screams but no one seems to hear a thing

Do you know that there's still a chance for you?

'Cause there's a spark in you

You just gotta ignite, the light, and let it shine

Just own the night like the 4th of July

'Cause baby you're a firework

Come on, show 'em what you're worth

Make 'em go "Oh, Oh, Oh"

As you shoot across the Sky -y -y

Baby, you're a firework
Come on, let your colors burst
Make 'em go "Oh, Oh, Oh"
You're gonna leave 'em falling down -own - own ...

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  

Visit  http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

If you have been encouraged by this post - please take time to share it with others.

4th of JULY - Fireworks, Burgers & Apple Pie

Happy 4th of July - Celebrate Your Light!

   It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. (NIV) 

   Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (KJV)

   It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. (NAS)

  ~ (Galatians 5:1)

Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a celebrated federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. On July 2, 1776 legal separation of the American colonies from the kingdom of Great Britain occurred, declaring freedom from their tyrannical rule. Afterwards, the Second Continental Congress debated and revised the Declaration, finally approving it on July 4th.  

Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, political speeches, ceremonies, and various other public and private events celebrating the United States of America’s history, government, and traditions.

Some of my favorite Scriptures on freedom and liberty: 
Speaking to Jewish believers, Jesus said, “Therefore, if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.“ (John 8:36) 

[Jesus] Himself will proclaim liberty to the captives, and open the prison [doors] to those who are bound. (Isaiah 61:1)

"The Lord will let the oppressed go free, and break every yoke." (Isaiah 58:6)

James states, “but he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does." (James 1:25)

"Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." (II Corinthians 3:17)  

"For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God." (Romans 8:20-21).

Once we're freed from the bonds of sin - we must "shine our light" for all to see! 

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven." (Matthew 5:16)

My hubby and I just recently saw Madagascar 3 in the movie theater  (Yes...we were there without our granddaughter!).  Anyways, I just love this song, sung by Katy Perry.
Here are some of the lyrics...

Firework

Do you ever feel like a plastic bag,

drifting through the wind

wanting to start again?

Do you ever feel, feel so paper thin

like a house of cards,

one blow from caving in?

Do you ever feel already buried deep?

6 feet under screams but no one seems to hear a thing

Do you know that there's still a chance for you?

'Cause there's a spark in you

You just gotta ignite, the light, and let it shine

Just own the night like the 4th of July

'Cause baby you're a firework

Come on, show 'em what you're worth

Make 'em go "Oh, Oh, Oh"

As you shoot across the Sky -y -y

Baby, you're a firework
Come on, let your colors burst
Make 'em go "Oh, Oh, Oh"
You're gonna leave 'em falling down -own - own ...

Happy 4th of July  -  Enjoy the video

(Best browsers for viewing are Google Chrome & Internet Explorer)

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”.  It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion.  It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.  Visit

http://www.spirituallyunevenmarriage.com

Happy 4th of July - Celebrate Your Light!

Celebrating Freedom and the Book Launch of Montezuma Intrigue

In celebration of our country’s “Freedom” and the Official Book Launch for Montezuma Intrigue, Linda Weaver Clarke is having a Book Give-Away lasting until July 7: Win a mystery/adventure novel with a touch of romance at http://lindaweaverclarke.blogspot.com/

Adventure...Suspense...Romance...Intrigue...
Humor! 

The search for Montezuma's treasure, mysterious events, family secrets, and a good-looking rogue!

When a leather parchment of Montezuma’s map is found in great-grandfather Evans’ old chest, April and the twins know this summer is going to be a memorable one. The girls want to search for it but their father is against it for some mysterious reason. With Julia’s help, she and the girls convince John to go on a treasure hunt. Is Montezuma’s treasure a legend or reality? Whatever the case, John insists on keeping their little treasure hunt a secret. If certain people find out about it, the family could be in danger.  Purchase here:  Montezuma Intrique
 

About the Author:

Linda Weaver Clarke travels throughout the United States, teaching a “Family Legacy Workshop” at libraries, encouraging others to write their family history and autobiography. Clarke is the author of the historical romance series, “A Family Saga in Bear Lake, Idaho” and a new mystery series, “The Adventures of John and Julia Evans.”

Linda was raised on a farm surrounded by the rolling hills of southern Idaho and made her home in southern Utah among the beautiful red mountains and desert heat. She has been happily married for 36 years and is the mother of six daughters and has four grandchildren .

After her family left the nest, she decided it was time to finish what she had started long ago. Linda decided to go back to college and get a degree. It had been 30 years since she had been in college and it was one of the most frightening things she had ever done. She had to learn how to study and take tests all over again. The first day of college, Linda was a nervous wreck and wondered if she could do it, but with the support of her husband and children she was able to graduate. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Theatre and Music at Southern Utah University and received the Outstanding Non-Traditional Student Award for the College of Performing Arts in 2002.

She enjoys writing short stories and novels.  After publishing "Melinda and the Wild West", she entered it in the Reader Views Literary Contest and her  book was chosen as a Semi-Finalist in the "Reviewers Choice Awards 2007." It was one of the top ten out of hundreds of other entries.

About Linda's Writing

"Linda Clarke has a writing style which opens the mind in a way that lets us see what her character sees, and allows the reader to feel the thoughts and emotions of the characters. It is impossible to avoid becoming part of the story she so skillfully develops. She writes historical fiction as if she were taking the reader back in time." -- Lloyd E. Reid, Library Director of Washington County Libraries

You can visit Linda on her website at  http://www.lindaweaverclarke.com  and her Blog at  http://www.lindaweaverclarke.blogspot.com

Deborah is the author of a Christian non-fiction book titled “Mission Possible”. It is written for women who love the Lord Jesus, but their spouse doesn’t share their passion. It will encourage and challenge the reader to embrace God’s promises for their spouse and future together.

http://www.Godmissionpossible.com 

Celebrating Freedom and the Book Launch of Montezuma Intrigue

Independence Day – Freedom is Yours!

Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a celebrated federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence. On July 2, 1776 legal separation of the American colonies from the kingdom of Great Britain occurred, declaring freedom from their tyrannical rule. Afterwards, the Second Continental Congress debated and revised the Declaration, finally approving it on July 4th. Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, political speeches, ceremonies, and various other public and private events celebrating the United States of America’s history, government, and traditions.

In the 1996 science fiction film “Independence Day”, starring Will Smith & Jeff Goldblum, a hostile alien force invades earth. The doomsday film holds the record for one of the highest worldwide grossing films of all-time, and was at the forefront of the large-scale disaster film and science fiction resurgences of the mid-to-late-1990's. Being attacked ruthlessly by an unknown assailant brought out the best in earth’s defenses, as the movie’s heroes led the attack in rather unconventional ways. Of course, the earth (good guys) won in the end. 

The earth today is also under attack from a hideous enemy whose only mission is to “steal, kill, and destroy” (John 10:10). Our Hero, Jesus, has already prevailed against this formidable foe. He has secured our freedom by His great sacrifice, that we might be released from death’s grip.  Our Hero has overcome death, hell and the grave!

Good news, we (God’s children) win in the end! God’s Word declares victory in Christ over every evil on Judgment Day. He has bought us with His precious blood and guaranteed our eternal liberation from death and destruction. Jesus is our Independence Day – now and forever.

Galatians 5:1  -  Three translations

   It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. (NIV)
   Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (KJV)
   It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. (NAS)

Scriptures on freedom and liberty:

Speaking to Jewish believers, Jesus said, “Therefore, if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.“  (John 8:36)


[Jesus] Himself will proclaim liberty to the captives, and open the prison [doors] to those who are bound. (Isaiah 61:1)


"The Lord will let the oppressed go free, and break every yoke." (Isaiah 58:6)


James states in Chapter 1 verse 25, “but he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does."



"Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." (II Corinthians 3:17)  We are free to be “re-made” – changed into a new creature in Christ.


"For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of Him who subjected it in hope; because the creation itself also will be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God." (Romans 8:20-21).

Freedom isn't free - it cost Jesus everything... 
Paul writes, "...for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23), "But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8), "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23).

Happy Independence Day!

Independence Day – Freedom is Yours!