It is fitting that we return to the words of our founders on Independence Day. George Washington’s farewell address gives us more than a few wise words to ponder:

Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, religion and morality are indispensable supports.

And:

Tis substantially true, that virtue or morality is a necessary spring of popular government.

In other words, virtuous people are essential for free societies.

But why?

Author Os Guinness said in a recent interview that, “To assess a nation, you look at the health and strength of its ideals.”

Who better to inform, guide, and direct our nation’s ideals but us, as Christians?

Guinness, echoing Washington, continues: “Freedom requires virtue. Virtue requires faith. Faith requires freedom.”

All three are essential to each other, and our culture. As Christians, we supply our country with virtue. One way we accomplish this is through our work.

However, without freedom – religious, political, and economic freedom, we are restricted from integrating our faith with our work. If we are unable to integrate our faith and work, we are unable to renew our country and our culture.

For example, when Christians disconnect faith and work, the virtue of the workplace and of our country disappears. Self-interest quickly turns into greed.

Greed, whether in the public or private sector, limits the abilities of others to use their gifts to serve others in the marketplace. It hampers freedom.

In light of this, we issue a unique call to Christians this Independence Day: exercise your freedom to integrate your faith and work. Be salt and light in and through your work. This is how our nation will flourish.

What do you think about the connection between freedom and faith?