Goodnight full moon–goodbye June! Hello, Kaboom! July 1^st came in with a sizzle, snap-fizz, and a boom! The countdown to the 4th of July is on!

 As we approach our nation’s America 250 milestone, I find myself reflecting on what ideal independence really looks like—not just for a country, but for the heart and the home.

History proves that declaring independence and achieving it are two entirely different milestones.

Historical Heritage

Historically, many have lost their independence in our country—from our first native settlers, to those enslaved, and to those dependent on others for freedom. Our independence comes at a cost. Good and bad intentions might drive the need for liberty, just as those same intentions are often forced upon others who never wanted to lose their freedom in the first place.

When the Second Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, it was a bold statement of intent~a brave vow to the world.

But a declaration is merely the first step. As the National Constitution Center notes, true independence wasn’t legally recognized by Great Britain until the Treaty of Paris was signed seven long years later September 3, 1783.

Divine Dependence

 My independence is dictated by my health—even more so with each passing year. The reality is I will have improvements and limitations. Setbacks and successes. My independence will fluctuate with these inevitable ups and downs.

Shifting from self-reliance to completely trusting God through every situation has proven that being dependent ON HIM is how I continue to find joy in the juggling of day-to-day activities.

If you know this one true Source, you understand.

A doctor told my dad last summer that the best way to stay independent is to ask for help. It makes me wonder:

• How often do we ask others (or Google) before we ask God?
• Do we spend alone time with Him to refill and refuel?
• Do we practice the patterns that propel peace?

It’s vital that we do not lose sight of Who provides ultimate freedom. If you’re counting on this world… well, you may find yourself in bondage. It hurts my heart to see those living enslaved in their past, tied to their achievements, or allowing the constant activities, platforms, and worries of this life determine their independence.

If there’s no time with our Creator how can you experience true freedom? INDEPENDENCY becomes the ability to hold truth tightly and worldly things loosely–all because of DEPENDENCY on Him!

Personal Preservation

When I think about kids, I smile. I have memories of my own boys and students who felt they weren’t given enough independence at times. And maybe too much at other times. It’s a balance!

I DO want to celebrate the freedom and faith we enjoy, recognizing that I did absolutely nothing to achieve them. For that, I am incredibly humbled. What if we actively taught and modeled to children the responsibilities and respect that come with these freedoms?

Looking ahead …thirty, forty, or fifty years down the road, how will we honor our own independence?

• Will we lose the faith and resilience it took to get there?
• Do we hold so tightly to our self-reliance that we block the blessings of faith, family, friends, and community?
• What are we fighting to preserve?
• What are the core pieces of our inner freedom we refuse to let go?

We live in a world that constantly tries to “self-protect”—from future domes to our own homes, whether we are looking at computer screen or physically seen.If your independence begins to fade, to whom will you turn?

We have a huge God who loves us completely. He is longing for us to find Him. When all else is lost, He will forever be the ultimate treasure. True liberty—living fully liberated—is ultimately found in complete dependence on the only One who is everlasting and true.

Do you know how loved you are?

Happy July, precious friends. Keep the faith. ❣️

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Friends, the NET community experienced a great loss. From his beloved wife, Lisa: “With a heart full of grief and gratitude, I share that my beloved Tom passed away peacefully…The past few days were surrounded by friends and family, enveloped by love…with so much love and with faith that he is at peace.” Tom Bajoras’s lasting spirit, amazing giftedness in music, and the love for his amazing wife, Lisa, will remain. According to her, he was the kindest and most gentlest soul she’s ever known. He had a rare gift for finding beauty in the ordinary. They recently celebrated their 20th anniversary. It was an honor to write about this extraordinary NET friend and his beloved wife, Lisa. Please join me in praying for Lisa and the entire family, a HUGE host of friends, fans, and followers, and the NCF team through these difficult days.

Tom released this beautiful collection for his beloved, Lisa, not long ago, in celebration of their anniversary. You can find his music on Spotify and Apple.

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