On this day, 250 years ago, the Continental Congress gave final approval to the Declaration of Independence. This is how we came to celebrate July 4 as Independence Day!
The level of providence and human sacrifice required to form this great union is hard to explain. Looking back, it is clear that God had a plan for America.
As we look back on the mindset of America’s founding generation, I’m reminded of a quote from Supreme Court Justice John Marshall, who served on the court from 1801 to 1835. Marshall said, “The American population is entirely Christian, & with us, Christianity & Religion are identified. It would be strange, indeed, if with such a people, our institutions did not presuppose Christianity, & did not often refer to it, & exhibit relation with it.”
Christianity was so prevalent during the founding era that Marshall thought it would be somewhat bizarre if America ever denied the Bible and Christianity. I’m convinced that God brought about the United States of America, in part, for the advancement of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Looking back over the last two and a half centuries, America has fostered and exported Christianity around the world.
I pray that you have a patriotic July 4 celebration with family and friends, and may the Lord continue working in the hearts and minds of the American people so that we may continue to propagate the Gospel of Jesus Christ to the ends of the earth!
In Christ,
