Happy Independence Day, America! Our nation celebrates its 248th birthday today and the day should be commemorated with great joy and thankfulness to God for blessing our nation. We face unprecedented challenges, but by God’s unmerited mercy, we remain a beacon of freedom.

One of the challenges we face is the deep divide between those who continue to stake our fate on our founding documents and those who don’t. From one side of the political aisle, we hear about a “threat to our democracy,” while the other side fights to uphold our Constitution.

Is there a rift between democracy and our Constitution? No! But we must understand our Constitution to accurately understand the part democracy plays. Bottom line: America is not a pure democracy, but rather a constitutional republic. Our forefathers, seeking a unique form of government which wasn’t ruled by a monarch, oligarch or dictator, sought the Lord for wisdom and guidance.

According to His guidance, America’s Constitutional Republic was born! What’s the difference?

As Benjamin Franklin wisely indicated, we have a constitutional republic, if we can keep it. Only a well-instructed population willing to self-govern can keep our form of government.

So, consider the namesake of our political parties: Democrats argue that our democracy is in danger and that majority rule should be the rule of the day, while Republicans strive to protect the Republic inspired by God.

There is plenty of reason to distrust politicians on both sides of the aisle, but the point is that, by definition, Republicans who clearly understand our Constitution know the value of a government of the people, by the people and for the people! During this tense election season, we are wise to seek out and vote for candidates who understand and appropriately function within the confines of our constitutional republic!

Finally, a free tidbit: Just as God called Israel for a specific purpose (to bless all the families of the earth – Genesis 12:3), many believe He called America for a specific purpose as well (to spread the Good News and grace of God to the world). Israel and America are the only two nations in history built specifically on Biblical foundations. To whom much is given, much is required.

As we celebrate our great nation, may we never forget Who brought us this far, and may we be faithful to keep our republic.

Happy Fourth of July!