The Source of Liberty

John Henry came to America from Scotland in the early eighteenth century to serve as a surveyor and justice in colonial Virginia. His son Patrick would change the world.

Born on this day in 1736, Patrick Henry began making an impact while a young lawyer. As a member of Virginia’s House of Burgesses, he became involved in the dispute between the colonies and the English government.

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

Henry 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 … by Christians, not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

Today, the world needs men and women with this bold commitment to the Gospel who realize that God alone truly sets us free. We need to realize that “wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom” (2 Corinthians 3:17) and that without His Spirit there is no liberty.

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