Today is Independence Day, a day celebrated by Americans to remember their Independence from Great Britain. They celebrate their political freedom and the right to do things their way.
For many people, being able to do things their way, and refusing help or support, is the norm. It is seen as weakness to need help and guidance. I see this especially from non-Christians, who see it as a sign of weakness to need to rely on God to help you – why can't you just do it yourself?
Sometimes as Christians we can feel we are constrained by expectations, and may feel guilty if we do not behave as we think we should. We've recently been studying the 10 Commandments with our youth group, and we have been reminded of how positive these guidelines really are, and how they relate to us in the present day. We've tried to look at them not as a set of "Don'ts" – they are not constraints to be bound by, but are actually really great encouragements to keep us on track and show us how to enjoy our independence responsibly.
However, we can fall into the trap of feeling and thinking life would be easier without those commandments. We look at friends who seem to be having more fun, who get away with things we would not contemplate, who live life on the edge. We compare our lifestyles of living responsibly and aiming to observe the commandments, and compare with their lifestyles, and sometime a little jealousy or temptation may seep in. Once again we become trapped by a comparison.
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life and have it to the full." John 10:10
We have been given our independence by a Father who truly cares for us, and who wants to see us live life in all its fullness. Watching and comparing ourselves with others could ultimately destroy us; we may become resentful or find ourselves tempted by things outside of the commandments God has given us. Living within God's commandments, and resisting the temptation to compare ourselves with others, will enable us to live life in all it's fullness, and with the loving support of our Heavenly Father right beside us.
Make today your Independence Day, and choose to live your life in freedom from the temptation to compare yourself with others.
Lord, forgive me for the times I've been temped to go my own way. Thank you that you are a Father who will always welcome me back and forgive me for believing I didn't need you and making bad choices. Amen
Corinne Mason
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