God Bless the U.S.A.

In studying the Revolutionary War, I remember being deeply moved by a quote from Thomas Paine, who believed God had a hand in liberating America from the British, and penned these sentiments as he travelled alongside the Continental Army with George Washington for a time in 1776.

"What we obtain too cheap, we esteem to lightly; It is dearness only that gives every thing it value. Heaven knows how to put a proper rice upon it's goods; and it would be strange indeed if so celestial an article as freedom should not be highly rated." 

These words, beginning with, "These are the times that try men's souls..." were read to the army on December 23, 1775, three days before the Battle of Trenton in an attempt to inspire and bolster the souls of the rag tag band of soldiers. The battle was a turning point for "our team" and there is no doubt that God's influence was there. 

I feel that these times also try men's souls, but I am deeply patriotic and 100% convinced that God desired America to be free, but that freedom requires obedience to his laws. My prayer this Independence Day is that we understand that God will bless America, when we are true and faithful to irrevocable (and non-voteable) laws that He has set forth to protect and bless us. 

Card Recipe (all supplies from Stampin' Up!)

Stamps: Chevron background stamp, Morning Post Alphabet

Ink: Real Red, Night of Navy, Marina Mist, Crumb Cake

Paper: Very Vanilla, Night of Navy, Crumb Cake and Marina Mist card stock, Silver Glimmer paper

Accessories: Hearts Collection Framelits (125599) and Big Shot (113439), Cloudy Day embossing folder (Spring Catalog), Linen Thread,  Natural 7/16" Trim, Postage Stamp Punch (122344), stampin' sponges