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National Freedom Day: Rooted in Faith?

National Freedom Day: Rooted in Faith?

Last updated on: February 1, 2025 at 4:29 pm by Electi A Deo

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National Freedom Day: Rooted in Faith? 2025-02-01T16:29:38-05:00 Electi A Deo

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National Freedom Day background banner or poster design template. observed every year in February. Holiday concept. Use to any Template, card, poster, placard, template.

National Freedom Day background banner or poster design template. observed every year in February. Holiday concept. Use to any Template, card, poster, placard, template. Photo credit goes to Neelrong28 who made this image and uploaded it on January 28, 2025. This image was downloaded from iStock on January 29, 2025.

Introduction

Not Much Recognition

What is National Freedom Day? I ask this question because this day does not receive much attention.

The lack of awareness may be because the day coincides with the start of Black History Month. Perhaps the day’s inclusive nature intimidates those who do not want to take attention away from commemorating black history.

Or could it be that the historical strides of the past cause the present generation to take freedom for granted? Or is it a form of silent protest as citizens refuse to celebrate an ideal that has yet to become a reality for everyone.

Regardless of the reasons for apprehension, 2025 is the perfect time to give National Freedom Day its proper recognition.

National Freedom Day

It’s Origins and Abraham Lincoln’s Motives

National Freedom Day occurs every year on the first of February. Thanks to President Harry S. Truman, the day became official on June 3,1948.

National Freedom Day recognizes

The end of slavery.
America as a symbol of liberty.
President Abraham Lincoln signing a joint House and Senate resolution.

President Lincoln’s resolution later becomes the 13th Amendment which protects anyone in the United States from becoming a slave or involuntary servant. With that being said, slavery and involuntary servitude can act as consequences for convicted criminals.

Aside from criminal repercussions, the end of slavery is a cause worth celebrating. However, there is much controversy surrounding Lincoln’s motives for abolishing this injustice.

Some historians believe preserving the union is the motivation behind Lincoln’s righteous deed.

Still, other scholars allude to his faith in God as the reason for freeing the slaves. This is due to Lincoln accepting the antislavery dogma he learned in church as a child.

Lincoln continued attending church with his wife as an adult and had much Bible knowledge.

Despite often quoting the Bible, Lincoln was skeptical about the idea of God giving revelations about his will to ordinary people.

A Prominent Figure

Unfortunately, I cannot provide a definite answer about Lincoln’s religious beliefs. However, I believe God was working out Lincoln’s decision to free slaves out for America’s good (see Romans 8:28).

God’s goodness can be seen through the purpose he gave to Major Richard Wright Sr. Similar to Lincoln, there is no clear public knowledge available about Wright’s religious beliefs.

Yet, God uses Lincoln’s decision to abolish slavery as inspiration for Wright who became free at nine years old. Wright took advantage of his freedom by becoming a

Scholar.
School founder.
Educator.
Pushling a newspaper.
Entrepreneur.
Political organizer.
Major in the Spanish-American war.
Army Paymaster (the first African American to fulfill this role).
Banker.

Wright used his banking experience to partner with C.C. Spaulding and others to establish the National Association of Negro Bankers. Initially meant to assist African Americans, the association keeps its vision alive today by helping bankers from all under-served communities.

Along with assisting under-served communities in the banking industry, Wright also devoted his time to lobbying for the creation of National Freedom Day. His efforts began by establishing the National Freedom Day Association.

This organization brought United States leaders together in Philadelphia to develop plans to honor the signing of the 13th Amendment.

Faith for Freedom

Death Before Fulfillment

Wright was instrumental in doing the ground work to make National Freedom Day a reality. Sadly, he passed away a year prior to his special day becoming official.

Wright passing before his vision came to fruition brings to mind the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11. Hebrews 11:39 says those with great faith died before seeing the manifestation of everything God promised them.

Wright’s life and this biblical truth suggest faith is not about the end result. Instead, it’s about trusting God by applying action to instructions God gives or the passions he places in our hearts.

Fulfilling these divine passions will help us obey God and make a positive impact in the lives of others. Take some time throughout Black History Month to thank God all those who (through faith) fought for the freedoms we enjoy today.

How to Celebrate National Freedom Day

Along with thanking God for the efforts of past generations, you can also celebrate National Freedom Day in a number of ways. Some people suggest learning about the 13th Amendment or participating in National Freedom Day activities.

While these are great ways to celebrate, there are two other ways to commemorate this day. First, take some time to listen to or sing a version of the song “We’ve Come This Far By Faith.” Originally written as a hymn by Albert A. Goodson, this song is a way to honor God for the many ways he’s helped America overcome collectively.

After listening to the song, why not celebrate by interceding for those experiencing spiritual and mental slavery today. You know those bound by

Drugs.
Alcohol.
Sexual abuse.
Domestic Abuse
Gluttony.
Childhood trauma.
Mental health challenges.
Other forms of addiction.

Interceding about these issues is important because one cannot truly be free until they experience the delivering, soul-saving power of Jesus Christ.

“And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32, New King Version). “Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed” (John 8:36, New King Version).

Lastly, use your freedom by taking heed to Paul’s word in Galatians 5:13 and serve others in love. Doing so will help you shine Christ light in a way that allows them to find hope in him.

A Prayer for Freedom

God, I come before you acknowledging you are my source of hope and freedom. You are the one who has shown yourself mighty in the face of oppression and slavery.

You are the one who empowered our ancestors with the courage, determination, and endurance to suffer for the freedoms we have today.

Father, forgive us for those times we take the various freedoms we have for granted. Also, forgive for those times we’ve failed to advocate for those experiencing various forms of oppression, discrimination and other injustices in this country.

Create in us clean hearts so we can have the boldness we need to advocate for those you ask us to help set free by your Holy Spirit.

Help us to cry out for and minister to those who need to experience your love and liberty. Set them free from the various strongholds that keep them in bondage.

Give law makers the conviction and wisdom necessary to make laws that protect the liberties we already possess.

Thank you for the military and police forces that defend our liberty. Preserve their lives as they risk personal wellbeing for our safety.

Thank you for all the blessings that come with being free. Help us to never take them for granted.

Thank you for your son Jesus Christ and his sacrifice which makes salvation possible for all. Thank you for eternal life after the sufferings of human life. In Jesus name, amen!

How will you celebrate National Freedom Day? I’d love to hear about your experiences. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!

Happy National Freedom Day! Happy Black History Month!

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