The Source of Liberty

John Henry came to America from Scotland in the early 18^th century to serve as a surveyor, colonel, and justice of the Hanover County Court in colonial Virginia. But it was his son, Patrick, who would change the world.

Born in Studley, Virginia, in 1736, Patrick began making an impact as a young lawyer, particularly because of his speaking ability. As a member of Virginia’s House of Burgesses, he became involved in the dispute between the colonies and the English government.

In a famous debate, he argued that the Virginia militia needed to be armed. Others strongly disagreed, but he responded, “I know not what course others may take, but as for me, give me liberty or give me death.” His passionate stand for liberty became an inspiration, and others began realizing the importance of standing for principle and not compromising.

But Patrick also knew that real liberty had to be based on Christian principles. He once said, “It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists but by Christians, not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

Today, the world desperately needs men and women in every nation who have this bold commitment to the Gospel. May God give us more leaders who realize that only He can truly sets us free. May He raise up more Believers who realize that “where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty” (2 Corinthians 3:17), and who understand that there is no liberty without His Spirit.

In your life, seek to serve God with your whole heart. Don’t give in to the deception in the world, but seek the spiritual freedom that comes only from God.