By REV. CHUCK GRIFFITH
Religion Columnist

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” — The Declaration of Independence

Back in July of 1776 fifty-six men representing the thirteen united American colonies were gathered in Philadelphia to sign a declaration that clearly recognized that the basic rights of humans are not given by men. The document states that “all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights...” These men understood that our freedom and rights are not mere political privileges granted by people in position of power but are God given from the beginning of all creation.

The words in the declaration seem intentional. We are “created” by our “Creator” with certain “unalienable rights.” We are not here by accident. God made us and He has given us certain rights that are part of His original design. Thomas Jefferson tied together acknowledging God as the Source of our liberty with the maintaining of our liberty when he asked the question “Can the liberties of a nation be sure when we remove their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of the people that these liberties are a gift of God!”

As you celebrate Independence Day this week remember no celebration of our freedom is complete without giving honor to the true source of our liberties—not the signers of the declaration—but God.

Thanks be to Him for life and liberty.

Chuck Griffith is pastor of Fayette Assembly of God, 1144 Ga. Highway 92 South in Fayetteville, 770-719-0322.

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