Each July Americans celebrate freedom, liberty and independence. The birth of freedom in America took place on July 4, 1776, when members of Congress put their signatures on the Declaration of Independence. This declaration of Independence was addressed directly to the King of Great Britain, King George III.
The Bible teaches that this world is held in the grip of an evil Prince who boasts that he controls all the kingdoms of this world (Mattthew (4:9). And, these kingdoms are made of people, like you and me.
The evil prince, also called Satan or the Devil, has “…. blinded the minds of unbelievers, so they cannot see the light of the Gospel of the Glory of Christ, who is the image of God” (ii Corinthians 4:4).
Jesus: Said ” The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because he has anointed Me to preach the good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed….”(Luke 4: 18).
Jesus came into the world to free us from the power of darkness. He said,” I have come that they might have life, and have it to the full” (John 10:10).
We are able to declare our independence from darkness by putting our faith in God through Jesus Christ. ” If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation, the old has passed away; behold, the new has come” II Corinthians 517.
Life in subjection to evil is characterized by “... sexual immorality, impurity, idolatry and witchcraft, hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition… envy….”(Galatians 5:19-21).
Freedom given by God is characterized by: “….. love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control….” (Galatians 5:22-23).
If you have never declared your spiritual independence from the evil one, put your faith in the Creator God today and then tell your Pastor or a Christian friend what do you have done and ask for guidance in your new life.
If you have trusted Jesus as your Savior, thank God for your spiritual independence from darkness.
If you know someone who appears to be living in darkness, pray for opportunity to share with that person the light and freedom that you celebrate.