LIBERTY, n. Freedom from restraint, in a general sense, and applicable to the body, or to the will or mind. The body is at liberty, when not confined; the will or mind is at liberty when not checked or controled. A man enjoys liberty, when no physical force operates to restrain his actions or volitions.

LIBERTINISM, n. Licentiousness of opinion and practice; an unrestrained indulgence of lust; debauchery; lewdness.

The Declaration of Independence of the United States of America:
"We hold these truths to be self-evident -- that all men are created equal; that they are endowned by their Creator with certain inalienable rights; that among these are life, libery, and the pursuit of happiness."

The statement quoted above is not Scripture, we can't say that it is God inspired, and yet, a whole country, and a whole way of life is based on it. And yes, there is much truth contained in it.

First, we see the truth that ALL men (meaning all humanity) are created... by a divine Creator... and as such, they are entitled to certain rights.
Among these rights is the rignt to liberty.
As we see liberty defined, it sets our right to be free, free from the restraint of tyrants, false imprisonment, persecution. Free to believe or not believe in God. Free even to not believe what the Declaration says.
Freedom, liberty, is a good thing.

And yet, we despair as we see liberty being abused and trampled, transformed into libertinism.

Libertinism is freedom abused, and self-control, discipline, healthy boundaries thrown out the window.
At times it seems that we have gone from laws that protect our liberty, to laws that protect libertinism. And our society suffers the consequences.
What are we Christians to do?
Well, we can start by making sure we educate ourselves and our children as to the place laws, rules, regulations, commandments need to be have our lives. Then we can ensure that we accept the consequences of our beliefs, and not be shocked when others don't share them. Finally, we can choose to take charge of our own lives, and stop trusting in outside forces, like human governments, to know right from wrong.
As you celebrate Independence Day... celebrate the One who makes you free.

Jesus said, "If you abide in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free" (John 8:32).

"If therefore the Son shall make you free, you shall be free indeed" (John 8:36).

Have a blessed week.