Independence Day

Today we celebrate our country’s independence with parades, flags, fireworks and grilled meat. So naturally, I woke up thinking of all the patriotic sacrifices others have made and the freedoms I enjoy.  But then I came across the following verse:

“Jesus was nailed to the cross so that we may have independence and freedom from sin.” (Romans 6:6 MSG)

Am I independent of sin (anything that separates me from God)? Or in my pursuit of complete freedom, am I seeking independence from God as well?

Subjugation in any form is irksome. My actions and thoughts are, more often than not, manipulated by my desire to be useful, valued, and admired…on my own merit.

I am financially dependent on my husband. I am aware that society measures my worth based on my association with him. By choosing to be dependent on him, I have given him power over me. (My husband is a nice guy, so I don’t feel resentful about this.)

Similarly, when I submit to God, I give Him power over me. My value is measured in association with Him. This means that I can’t be useful on my own. This is hard to accept.

The more I attempt to be independent, to stand on my own, to be defined by my own accomplishments—apart from anyone, including God—the more I become enslaved to sin.