Independence, Yes! What's Next?

Scripture Reading

Exodus 14: 12-15

Introductory Remarks:

Every year, we celebrate Independence. We honour the courage, sacrifice, and vision of those who shaped our nation’s future. We wave our flags, sing our national songs, and give thanks for the freedom they secured.

But today, Better Living invites us to ask a deeper question:

Independence… yes! What’s next?

While a nation may be free from foreign rule, many of us still allow ourselves to be governed by fear, anger, greed, dishonesty, unforgiveness, addiction, or limiting beliefs. The truth is, changing the government around us does not automatically change the government within us.

The highest form of freedom is not simply being free from something—it is being free to govern yourself according to Divine Principle.

Today, we’ll explore what it means to become truly “inner dependent,” establishing a government within that is rooted in God. Because when we govern ourselves well, we help build stronger families, healthier communities, and a better nation.

Independence… yes! What’s next?

Major Points of the Lesson:

1. Learn from the Past

Freedom Without Reflection Repeats the Past

2. Govern Yourself

Self-Government Is the Highest Form of Freedom

3. Build Systems of Accountability

Freedom Without Accountability Eventually Becomes Bondage

4. Keep Reforming Yourself

Independence Is Not an Event. It Is Continuous Renewal.

Quote: 

“Each man must sooner or later learn to stand alone with his God; nothing else avails. Nothing else will ever make you master of your own destiny. There is in your own indwelling Lord all the life and health, all the strength and peace and joy, all the wisdom and support that you could ever need or desire. No one can give to you as can this indwelling Father. He is the spring of all joy and comfort and power.” H Emily Cady - Lessons in Truth. 

ASSIGNMENT:

Draft Your Personal Constitution

This week, write the Constitution that will govern your life as a spiritual being.

Every nation has a constitution that establishes its highest values, the rights it protects, the responsibilities of its citizens, and the principles by which decisions are made.

As a child of God, you are called to live intentionally rather than accidentally. Instead of allowing your life to be governed by circumstances, emotions, public opinion, or old habits, create the guiding document that will govern your thoughts, feelings, words, actions, and reactions.

Ask yourself:

Review your constitution regularly and revise it as you grow.