Our county and many of our people are going through some hard times now as financial institutions that we have trusted in and, the economy in general, have taken big hits. Many are out of work and have lost their homes.

As I reflect on today I’m reminded of a greater day of Independence and a better place that I have put my trust that has nothing to do with finances. It was a day over 28 years ago when I had bottomed out financially, lost our home, went bankrupt after tying to build a business with a partner and wondered how I was going to take care of our little family.

After spending an hour with a financial counselor he prayed for us and told my wife and I about a book we should read. I bought a copy of that book and about two weeks later I prayed to ask the Lord to take over the lead in my life and I put my trust in Jesus to provide for us. Since that day He always has taken care of us and met our every need.

That prayer has really lead to a new Independence for me and my family over these years. Yes, I still try to take control at times and do things that I want to and in my way however, I know that apart from the plans that the Lord has for me and my following them that I will loose my independence and not gain it.

Today I was reading Romans 13: 1-8 which talks about our submission to the governing authorities. It is good to read this on July 4th and remember that no matter who is in leadership in our country that God has put them there. “Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God.” Romans 13:1 This is a good day to pray for all those in authority over us and ask God to once again Bless America and her people.

May you have a Blessed Independence Day wherever you live in this world.