Billy Graham on 4th of July

Independence Day commemorates July 4, 1776 — the day our nation declared itself to be a free nation, and no longer a colony of England. On that day many leading citizens signed what is known as the Declaration of Independence, stating our determination to become a free country.

Our forefathers were determined to establish a free and democratic system of government, and the Declaration of Independence (together with our Constitution and the Bill of Rights) became the foundation for this. Today we give thanks for the wisdom, faith, and courage of those leaders, and we reflect on God’s goodness to us as a nation. Molded into the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia (which proclaimed our independence) are these words from the Bible: “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof” (Leviticus 25:10, KJV). And even our legal system reflects our Judeo-Christian roots of faith and freedom through Christ.

While we look with gratitude to the past on this July 4th, may we also look in faith to the future, and commit it and our lives to God and His will. The ancient words of the Psalmist are still true: “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord” (Psalm 33:12).

~~ selected quotes by Billy Graham