In a culture where truth is often clouded by noise and division, songs that speak of genuine freedom—both spiritual and personal—cut through like a clear call. This Independence Day, as we celebrate the freedoms we enjoy, it's worth reflecting on the deeper freedom offered through faith in Christ.
From the gritty social commentary of hard rock veterans Demon Hunter’s “I’m Done” to the victorious praise of worship band The Belonging Co.’s “Every Victory,” each of these songs explores a different aspect of what it means to be truly free. Whether it's wrestling with spiritual battles, embracing identity in Christ, or standing firm in faith despite cultural chaos, these songs remind us that freedom isn’t just a national right—it’s a divine gift.
Demon Hunter - "I'm Done"
I bet this isn't the first song that came to mind when thinking of Independence Day. However, it speaks volumes to the times we live in. We live in an age of unprecedented information access. And yet, it seems like lies and deceit have never had a greater hold on our culture. Even our news reporting has become little more than propaganda for a given partisan point of view. While this song's lyrics are rooted in the dark, cryptic poetry for which lead singer, Ryan Clark, is known, they resonate deeply with the state of our world.
"No sense in convеrsation/We fire at will" speaks of our inability to have civil discussions over contentious issues. "Tell me I'm not numb/Hang me by my tongue" carries some visceral imagery that can speak to how numb all of this can make us, how easily we can be ostracized for telling the truth, but also how we should also be slow to speak lest we also not add to the noise.
Christ chose His words carefully, and while they made Him many enemies, they also carried a power that changed the course of humanity. Likewise, our forefathers pulled off an unprecedented event in history, starting a new nation built on the premise of freedom and liberty. Of religion. Of speech. And yet, some 250 years later, it seems that many are willing to sacrifice these freedoms at the altar of emotions. It's so easy to feel fed up with this whole thing. Yet, the great thing about our country is that we have the freedom to call out the hypocrisies and deceptions. We even have the freedom to declare "I'm done" with the whole game, and that itself can be a powerful statement. So, while you're firing up your freedom barbeques this year, this song's biting and cryptic social commentary may be an unusual addition to your playlist. - J.J. Francesco
Zee (ft. BRENNO & Taylor Wells) - "Big Oil"
If you want to hear songs of freedom, look up the music of any of these three kingdom powerhouse artists. They are making waves in the world with their lyrics, consistently releasing songs of breakthrough, freedom, and deliverance. Their recent collaboration, "Big Oil," is a resilient rally cry for spiritual warriors to rise in their God-given authority, knowing who they are in Christ and living in that identity.
Galatians 5:1 tells us, "It is for freedom that Christ set us free," and as believers, we celebrate our freedom in Christ all day, every day. Songs like this remind us of our freedom and empower us to live the life Christ paid for at the cross. - Janice Henriquez
The Belonging Co. (feat. Danny Gokey) - "Every Victory"
Galatians 5:1 says, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
Before Jesus gave up His life for us, we were burdened by our sins, carrying the yoke of slavery. Having no way out, we were destined for the ultimate punishment of our sin: an eternal separation from Him. However, God, being full of grace and mercy, sent Jesus as a sacrifice so that we can spend eternity with Him.
Once we start following Jesus Christ and begin a life with Him, there is no need to be burdened by the weight of sin anymore. We now have freedom in Christ from the penalty of our sin. While the weight of the battles we face on this earth is heavy, we are reminded that Jesus carries the ultimate victory: “One name, one name holds every victory/One voice that silences the enemy/One king who reigns for all eternity/Jesus, Jesus.”
Every victory belongs to Jesus, and I hope this song reminds you of the freedom we have in Jesus Christ. - Gilead Adams
Skillet - "All That Matters"
Skillet’s “All That Matters” is an anthem of unity and loyalty to faith, family, and freedom. Ask yourself, “What do I stand for?” This song has an infectious urgency. In today's world, it is crucial to consider how our actions align with our values and priorities. God wants us to believe in our freedom on the cross of Jesus. We're free from our fears, addictions, insecurities, and perfectionism. Jesus came to die for us so we can truly live in Him. In today's culture, it’s radical for people to accept heaven's entrance requirements—repentance and spiritual rebirth.
Because we know this truth, whatever the outcome, which is based on His promise in Romans 8:28: "God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose." We're all united in our struggles, spiritual warfare, and desire for truth and relationship.
The song celebrates the freedom promised in God's Holy Word, the Bible. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 states, "If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new."Christians are new creations on the inside.
Join John in singing these words: “When darkness divides us, I believe that love can conquer all/Courageous, united, we stand or fall/My faith, my family, my freedom, that’s all that matters to me.” - Kevin Davis
Run Kid Run - “Freedom”
This is my favorite Christian contemporary song about freedom. The lyrics speak volumes. It echoes what Jesus said to the Pharisees in John 8:34-36. “ Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. Now, a slave has no permanent place in the family, but a son belongs to it forever. So, if the son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
My favorite parts of the song are “The time has come, Separation lost the war to love/Take My hand, Grace is found/Where your words begin, You're alive, you're alive/In the waking of new life/Take My hand, In the end there's only love.” and “I know I'm not the only one/Praying to the One/Who can bring me this freedom/ I'm ready for, I'm ready for/Father please I need rescuing/I need You and You alone.” - DJ Tommy G.
OpenAI's ChatGPT aided with this article. Assembled from all corners of North America and many other places in between, the NRTeam consists of staffers whose energy is equally devoted to loving and writing about the music they cherish.
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