Freedom Under God’s Law
The Daily Devotional
Monday, June 30, 2025
Freedom Under God’s Law
But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than any human authority.” (Acts 5:29)
Introduction
As June fades into July and America prepares to celebrate its independence, Christians across the nation are invited to reflect not only on their civil freedoms but on the deeper, eternal freedom offered through Christ. Acts 5:29 challenges us to examine where our true allegiance lies—especially when the values of the nation and the commands of God begin to diverge.
Reflection
On a warm summer morning last year, I watched a small-town Fourth of July parade roll down Main Street. Children waved miniature flags, and veterans saluted as the national anthem played. Near the end of the parade, a truck passed by bearing a large banner that read: “America is a Christian Nation—Follow the Flag and Follow Jesus.” A man beside me nodded approvingly and said, “That’s the kind of faith we need more of.”
His words made me pause. I understood his sentiment, but I couldn’t help but wonder—have we begun to blend the symbols of our faith with the emblems of national identity in a way that might obscure the gospel? Christian Nationalism can sound like devotion, but at its heart, it often replaces Christ as King with country as savior. Scripture doesn’t call us to follow the flag. It calls us to follow Jesus—even when doing so challenges popular politics, national pride, or cultural norms.
Peter’s defiant words in Acts 5 weren’t just brave—they were dangerous. He spoke them to religious and political leaders who demanded silence. But his allegiance was clear: God's authority came first, even if it cost him his comfort, freedom, or life.
Application
As we wave our flags and give thanks for the freedoms we enjoy this week, let’s ask ourselves: Are we obeying God, or are we blending faith with nationalism in a way that distorts both? True freedom comes not from independence from a government but from dependence on God's Word. Let us celebrate our country, yes—but with eyes fixed on a greater Kingdom.
Challenge yourself to examine your political beliefs, your conversations, and even the media you consume: Do they align more with man’s ideologies or with God’s law of love, justice, mercy, and truth?
Conclusion
As the month closes and the fireworks begin, may we remember that the Kingdom of God knows no borders. Our freedom in Christ transcends every earthly constitution, and our ultimate allegiance is to the One who reigns forever—not to a nation, but to a Savior.
Prayer
Lord of all nations, thank You for the freedoms we enjoy, and for the peace we often take for granted. But more than these, thank You for the eternal freedom found in Christ alone. Help us to see clearly where human laws and loyalties conflict with Your Word. Give us the courage, like Peter, to say, “We must obey God rather than man.” Teach us to walk as citizens of Heaven, living faithfully on earth without confusing the two. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
