Faith, Family, Freedom | Norman & OKC Portrait Photographer

This week, as we look forward to celebrating America’s 250th birthday, I wanted to take some time to reflect on freedom, faith, and family.

Let’s jump right in!

Celebrating liberty

Being an American is something special to celebrate.

From our country’s founding, our nation has been defined by Christian principles. We know our rights are not given by the government, but rather, they’re given by God. And not only that: our freedoms have been fought for and protected by those who have sacrificed everything for our country.

Grateful is an understatement.

I posted this quote on social media last year for Independence Day, and it still remains true today:

“Only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you; Jesus Christ and the American soldier. One died for your soul; the other for your freedom.”

Free in Christ

True freedom is found in God. The Bible tells us that we are slaves to sin, but made free in Christ. Without Jesus’ death and resurrection, we would still be enslaved to our sin. It is because of God’s great love for us that He made a way for us to be made right with Him, and His grace and salvation are free gifts!

“Jesus answered them, ‘Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin. The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son remains forever. So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.’” John 8:34-36 ESV

We are free in Christ! This Fourth of July weekend, let’s take a moment to remember the grace God has shown us, not only for salvation and His love for us, but also for where He has placed us.

In America, we get to worship God freely. While Christians across the globe are being severely persecuted and martyred for their faith in Jesus, we get to live in a country where we can stand firmly for our faith and where brave soldiers fight for our freedom to do so, even laying down their lives. Let’s not take that for granted.

Faith, family, & freedom

Families are the foundation of our society. We also see the significance of the family and God’s design for families throughout Scripture.

“Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.” Psalm 127:3-5 ESV

While we may not be perfect, living in obedience to the Lord and walking in His ways will change our lives—from our families and relationships to how we live and act in our country.

I’m so thankful to live in a country where I not only get to follow Jesus openly, but also where my family can live and thrive because of our freedoms that have been fought for and defended.

“Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord, the people whom he has chosen as his heritage!” Psalm 33:12 ESV

What now?

As a portrait photographer, the importance of my faith and family relationships are at the forefront of my business. While posting a patriotic blog may seem controversial, I wanted to highlight the freedoms and the blessings of living in America, and how loving our families and following Christ are such great gifts.

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