John Adams, one of the great patriots of the American Revolution and signer of the Declaration of Independence, contemplated with amazing foresight the significance of the founding fathers' actions on July 4, 1776. The next day he prophetically wrote in a letter to his wife Abigail: "This day will be the most memorable epic in the history of America. I am apt to believe that it will be celebrated by succeeding generations as the great anniversary festival."

Reflecting on the appropriateness of such celebrations, Adams also wrote, "It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance by solemn acts of devotion to God Almighty."

So, in the spirit of our nation's brave founders, let's remember the magnitude of God's blessing and deliverance with spiritual "acts of devotion" as we celebrate our freedom this Independence Day.

Galatians 5:1
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. (NIV)

• Independence Day Bible Verses
• Christian Prayers for the Fourth of July
• Christian Quotes of the Founding Fathers

This week's post is a member-submitted Christian poem called The Nail. It is about the sacrifice and suffering of Christ on the cross.

Image: © Davide Guglielmo
The Nail

The nail is used for many things,
A useful securing tool;
A hammer is taken by the hand
And drives it, that's the rule.

A nail is needed when you build,
It's a necessary thing.
It was also used over two thousand years ago
To hang upon a tree, the King.

He took the pain and suffering
For all mankind, you see.
Yet He took the torture just for you,
And He took it just for me.
Read more ... The Nail by Laurene H. Bell.

Do you have an original Christian prayer that would encourage or benefit a fellow believer? Perhaps you've written a unique poem you'd like to share with others. We are looking for Christian prayers and poems to encourage our readers in their communication with God. To submit your original prayer or poem, please fill out this Prayer / Poem Submission Form.

More About Christ's Sacrifice:

• Timeline of Jesus' Final Hours
• The Trial and Death of Jesus Christ