Life, Liberty and Happiness

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal. And that they are endowed by their Creator with certain inalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness” ………etc etc.  (Declaration of Independence)

Our Founding Fathers were unabased in their assertion that it was God who endowed all men with “certain inalienable rights.” Is there a biblical verse that promises mankind the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness?

Well, not exactly. But the first five books of the Bible (called the Torah) certainly talk about the sanctity of human life and describes the first man and women as being “created in the image of God.” Created in His image also gives us responsibility.  To care for our fellowman in a way that exhibits God’s love for His creation.

The principles of liberty, equality and individualism are all based on Biblical principles.  The American colonists felt that their entrepreneurial and political rights were being violated. They fought for their freedom and once independence was won, the fledging and idealistic American government was committed to protecting that freedom.

The Bible doesn’t say, “these are your rights.. don’t let anyone take advantage of you.” Instead, we read where a husband is to care for his wife; Good Samaritan tells us about caring for one’s fellowman; giving poor people access to gather in the fields (Ruth). It’s always what we do for others that makes us a different people from the rest of the world.  We give them a bit of hope and happiness in a dark world.                              .    

The story of our nation began when people demanded their freedom.  We must consider that it is a privilege to live in a nation that gives this right to choose.  
                        However, we must choose service ahead of rights

On a personal level, the small shift from rights to service can make a dramatic difference in all our relationships.  When the focus is largely about our rights, we have lost a sense of our own humility and our purpose.   

As Believers, we are committed servants.  We are disciples of the One who was committed in service to His fellow man.  He showed us the way. 

                                   Can we do anything less?