Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.
1 Peter 2:16
As we gather with friends and family this Fourth of July—firing up the grill, waving flags, and watching fireworks light up the night sky—let’s take a moment to remember what we’re really celebrating. Independence Day is about far more than a date on the calendar. It’s about freedom—hard-fought, God-given freedom. We’re blessed to live in a nation where we can speak freely, worship openly, and pursue the life God has called us to live. And those blessings are worth pausing to thank Him for.
Our National Day of Prayer theme this year, “Pour Out to the God of Hope and Be Filled,” reminds us that real, lasting hope doesn’t come from political systems or national pride—it comes from the Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:13 is a prayer, asking, “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” That’s what we need more of in our homes, our churches, and yes, in our country—hope that runs deeper than the headlines and steady through the storms.
So today, as we wave our flags and thank God for our freedoms, let’s also remember the greatest freedom of all—freedom that only comes through Jesus Christ. True liberty isn’t just about where you live, it’s about Who you belong to. We are ONE NATION UNDER GOD, and we look forward with confidence because our ONE HOPE is alive—and His name is Jesus.
Heavenly Father, thank You for this country and the freedom we enjoy. Thank You for those who sacrificed so we could live free. But most of all, thank You for the freedom we have in Jesus—the kind that sets our hearts free no matter what’s happening around us. Fill our homes, our communities, and this nation with Your peace, Your presence, and Your hope. Help us remember that true liberty is found in You alone. May we be a people who live in Your freedom and point others to it. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Rejoicing in Hope,
Dion Elmore
Vice President | NDP Task Force