Live Free or Die

The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:6 NIV

Read Romans 8:5-11

If you have ever noticed the license plate of someone from New Hampshire, you'll have seen the motto "Live Free or Die." The origin of this motto dates back to a letter written by General John Stark on July 31, 1809. Stark, a New Hampshire-born war hero, served during the French and Indian War and later as a major general in the Continental Army during the American Revolution. His leadership at the Battle of Bennington earned him the nickname "the Hero of Bennington." 

In declining an invitation to a reunion of Battle of Bennington veterans due to his failing health, Stark sent a toast by letter. The toast read: "Live free or die: Death is not the worst of evils." By that time, the phrase "Vivre Libre ou Mourir" ("Live free or die") was already popular during the French Revolution. Stark's words captured the unwavering commitment to freedom and independence. 

The motto "Live Free or Die" indicates an unwavering commitment to freedom, even in adversity. It reflects the idea that true life involves living without oppressive constraints. 

As believers, we also have a choice: to live enslaved by earthly concerns (the flesh) or to embrace the Spirit's freedom.

Those who live according to the flesh, letting earthly concerns govern their minds, experience spiritual death. These earthly concerns are anything that draws us away from God—material possessions, selfish ambitions, and sinful pleasures. This choice demonstrates hostility toward God in rebelling against His ways. The refusal to submit to His law leads to a separation from the abundant life God offers.

But the other choice, to "live free," aligns with the promise of life in the Spirit. Those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on godly things. Verse 10 declares that if Christ is in us (through the Spirit), our bodies are alive because of righteousness. The Holy Spirit indwells believers, granting us true life—a life that transcends physical existence and connects them to God's eternal purposes.

As we navigate life, we face choices daily:

• Will we live enslaved by the flesh, bound by sin and selfish desires?

• Or will we embrace the Spirit's freedom, allowing God's life and peace to flow through us?

Let our spiritual license plate boldly proclaim: "Live Free in Christ." May we choose the Spirit, submit to God's law, and experience His abundant life. 

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the freedom we have in Christ. Help us set our minds on the things of the Spirit, seeking life and peace. May we walk in obedience, submitting to Your will. Transform our hearts so that we may please You in all we do. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim