Read Time: 5 min 01 sec | Reading Level: 7th Grade

U.S. HISTORY

HBD, America

Tomorrow night, sparklers will be lit, flags will wave, and grills will heat up across the nation as Americans celebrate Uncle Sam’s birthday. But what’s the story behind the long weekend full of (sometimes barely legal) fireworks?

It all goes back to some determined colonists who were done with British governance.

When fighting between British soldiers and American colonists began in April 1775, the colonists were focused on their rights as subjects of the crown. Talk of independence was considered radical. But by the next summer, the Revolutionary War was in full swing, and the Continental Congress (a group of leaders from the 13 colonies who made big decisions) voted to move toward independence.

Now, they just needed to give the monarchy a formal heads-up. The Declaration of Independence, written primarily by Thomas Jefferson, was adopted on July 4, 1776—the date now celebrated as the birth of American independence.

With the Constitution (1787) and the Bill of Rights (1791), the Declaration of Independence became one of the United States’ essential founding documents. Its assertion of God-given “unalienable rights” also influenced other countries like France, which soon experienced its own revolution. 

Independence Day celebrations didn’t become common until after the War of 1812 (kind of like a round-two war with Britain). It was another victory that bolstered national pride and the desire to wave the Stars and Stripes. 

Congress passed a law making Independence Day a federal holiday on June 28, 1870, and it quickly became the most important secular holiday on America’s calendar.

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CHRISTIAN RESPONSE
Fourth of July celebrations present a unique opportunity to interact with our community. Be intentional about loving and blessing your neighbors as you interact with them this weekend. 

“You are the light of the world. A city situated on a hill cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:14-16 (CSB) (read full passage)

What do I want to make sure my kids know in light of this story?
The Declaration of Independence asserts that “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness” are God-given human rights.

What does it mean to pursue happiness? The world tells us it means seeking “the good life”: security, wealth, success, a good reputation, and the alleviation of suffering. But the Bible tells a different story (and uses a more meaningful word):

• Joy is found in God’s presence, not in earthly things (Psalm 16:11)

• Joy comes from obeying and abiding in Jesus (John 15:11)

• Joy is a fruit of the Spirit that we bear in close proximity to him (Galatians 5:22)

• Joy can be ours even in suffering, since suffering grows our faith (James 1:2-3)

True joy—a happy contentment that can be ours regardless of our circumstances—comes from knowing the Lord.

How can I model putting my hope and trust in Christ when discussing this story?
July 4 is a day when Americans celebrate their earthly citizenship.

We can give thanks for the privilege of living in a country that allows the freedom to worship, to serve, and to live out our faith publicly. These are gifts entrusted to us by God.

It’s also an opportunity to reflect on and give thanks for our citizenship in heaven (Philippians 3:20). Every country or empire on earth—with all its flaws and praiseworthy qualities—is temporary. It rules for a while, exerting great power and influence for good or ill… but it’s just a blip on the timeline of eternity.

• Discuss: Where have you been looking for joy? Has that source delivered happiness or proven empty?

• Memorize Revelation 11:15, “The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of his Christ, and he will reign forever and ever” (CSB).

• Pray for opportunities and boldness to share the love of Jesus with your neighbors this July 4th.

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