God Still Wins

July 4^th, 1776 did not mark the end of the bloody and hard-fought battle for America’s freedom from British rule. The Revolutionary War continued more than 6 agonizing years after the Declaration of Independence.

Victory came in stages that fit into chapters and graphic timelines much easier in historical perspective than it did for those who lived through it. Like any great achievement, the line between victory and loss was fragile.

The British had some victories along the way but must have understood early on that this war against the colonies would cost too much. British rulers must surely have had a dose of reality in the futility of fighting freedom.

Even in their victory at Bunker Hill (more than a year before the Declaration of Independence on July 4^th, 1776) the British Commander of that battle (William Howe, who later became Commander in Chief of Land Forces for Britain in the War) seemed to sense the reality. Speaking of the Battle of Bunker Hill he said it was a success, “too dearly bought.”

On the American side, while the effects of war continued to be very real, the first July 4^th celebration broke out spontaneously on July 4^th, 1777 in the streets of Philadelphia. John Adams wrote that the celebration was such to give, “great joy to every friend to this country, and the utmost terror and dismay to every lurking tory.” To be a “Tory” meant you were among the 20% - 30% of colonist who saw nothing wrong with English rule. They didn’t feel freedom was worthy of the fight.

We still have Torys in America.

Adams went on to say how, that if General Howe had just been there to see the celebration, it would have given him “the heart-ache.”

Despite the jubilance surrounding the events on July 4^th, 1776, and the celebrations of July 4^th, 1777, by 1881 George Washington wrote of his concern that the people were discontented. The war was dragging on, Continental Army officers were not getting their pay and Washington recognized all could be lost due to the low, weary and declining morale of the population.

Think About it

Celebrate July 4^th with appreciation and passion. Remember however, that though they remained in war at the time, that first July 4^th celebration was enough to strike the “utmost terror and dismay” to every enemy within. 

In the end, God still wins.

Make sure you check out the link for the annual summit event of church security professionals. We would love to see you there. The speakers, schedule and registration can be reviewed at https://www.fbsnamerica.com/events/sos-23