Independence Day is all about freedom. I'm grateful to live in a country that values freedom. I absolutely enjoy the blessing and joy of what that means for most of us in America.

That being said, the freedom we experience now is limited. It is limited to our ability to defend our country. It is limited by a healthy economy. It is limited by our physical health. It is limited by our perspective. The list goes on.

The Bible offers a freedom that is much richer than anything this planet can provide. A few (of many) passages that speak to this:

"I have come to set the captives free." (Luke 4:18).

"You shall know the truth and the truth will set you free." (John 8:32)

"If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." (John 8:36)

"It is for our freedom that Christ has set us free." (Galatians 5:1)

So what is this freedom about?

Freedom from the anchor of this world. Our joy, peace and comfort will never be satisfied here. It can only be anchored in the One who can give us what our souls most long for.

Freedom from the pressure of crafting an identity. Your identity is in Christ, not in your work, your body, your money or anything else.

Freedom from worrying about the future. Your future is secure. This life will end. You will be free from an aging body declining in health. You will be forever in the fullness of God's Presence.

Freedom from the enslaving power sin and its consequences. My wife says, "Sin is a bummer!" and she's right. So much of our heartache here on earth is the battle between the spirit and the flesh. Good news! We will be free.

Freedom to be who God made you to be. It all boils down to love. God is love (I John 4:8). We are made in God's image. Our purpose is to be conduits of that love.

And the Bible talks all about it in I Corinthians 13.