What in our lives exemplifies true freedom?

Hi everyone. I’m Sherry Douglas with Heart-Song. Peter Marshall was the Chaplain of the US Senate in 1947 when during a prayer he said, “May we think of freedom, not as the right to do as we please, but as the occasion to do what is right.” Many may think of freedom as the gateway to fulfilling wants and desires, and being able to pursue them even if it costs others. Marshall, though, is challenging us to think of it as an occasion to look around us and take action that is not only right for us, but does not do harm to others. He challenges us to do what is right.

What in our lives exemplifies true freedom? Is it standing up for those who cannot stand up for themselves? Is it giving time, dollars, or talents to individuals who need a helping hand? Is it putting aside our wants and desires when they interfere with the rights of others? To truly address this, each of us will have to take the initiative to examine how we live with “true freedom” in our own lives.

For those who operate by faith, we have an added responsibility to be attentive to others. Philippians 2:3 says, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” That goes hand in hand with Marshall’s prayer.

As we celebrate Independence Day for our nation this week, let’s be thankful that we live in the US. What a privilege it is. Let’s also keep in mind that freedom does not give us the right to do whatever we please.

Live the way you want to be remembered!