- Freedom of Mindset—one of the greatest freedoms we have as Americans is the freedom to choose our own mindset. Because of the other freedoms we enjoy—of expression, of worship, of assembly—we have the wonderful ability to set our minds however we wish. We can choose to be positive; we can choose to be bitter; we can choose to be generous of spirit or we can choose to be hard of heart. Our country is continually reshaped by the mindsets we choose to embrace as a nation, and for better or worse, I’m grateful for that freedom.
- Freedom to Act—America is a nation where action is welcomed, a place where a person with an idea and the will to bring it about can thrive. While we’ve not always made the playing field equitable in terms of opportunity or access, we have opened more doors for people with dreams than any other country in the world. For some, the way forward may be longer and harder than it should be, but it’s still there. And that’s worthy of gratitude.
- Freedom to Fail—I especially love this freedom, because I need this kind of grace! Not every decision I make is the best one, but the freedom to learn from my mistakes—preceded by the freedom to make them—is one of the greatest catalysts for growth in my life. The permission to try something new, or bold, or creative without having to be perfect is one of the greatest gifts of every American.
- Freedom to Rebuild—on the heels of failure, the freedom to try again and do better is another gift. There are places in this world where failure is fatal, places where mistakes limit your potential, but that’s not the case in America. We are a nation that allows people to reinvent themselves as often as necessary or desired—a nation that gives permission to grow from failure and try again. We are free to grow, and we should celebrate that every day!
- Freedom to Give (All of you to all of God. Now is good for that cuz He gave you life). What? To give? This might not seem like a freedom, but it’s really about having a heart to bless and help others (not talking about to me). Jesus came and selflessly exampled this -- he protected and nurtured his sheep. Still does. The Father does too. The ability to give to God first, and to charities or causes that are near and dear to our hearts -- it’s a wonderful privilege when you think about so many who are always out on the take. It’s one we shouldn’t take lightly. Live and give the Gospel Message away with JOY. In a nation where abundance is possible for so many, being free to give to people, to your healthy local Christian church and to good organizations.. it’s wonderful and something to celebrate in the Lord. He can lead you in this. There are a lot of wolves out there -- out to devour. We’re free to give, so let’s live free and give freely as He our chief Shepherd directs each of us. The Bible says, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16
No matter your circumstances today, we all have the freedom to think, to dream, to know and to apply the word of God. We are free to treat others with respect and kindness—and there are other freedoms we could name too if we just sit down for a while and pray as we think it through.
So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. John 8:36
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh ; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: "Love your neighbor as yourself." Galatians 5:13-14
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. Galatians 5:1
"Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness…Broad, wholesome, charitable views of [people] and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime." ~ Mark Twain
