Of the Free…
Freedom? An ideal, a wish, a reality?
It is hard in a world bent on pleasing self to find true freedom. Whether under a tyrannical government or being a citizen of a country like America, if we define freedom by human reasoning or ideals then that freedom could be fleeting.
But there is lasting freedom.
Jesus tells all who hold to His teaching “Then you will know the truth, and truth will set you free…So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:32, 36 NIV)
Man’s laws, constitutions, leaders, rules, courts are not where freedom is found or lost. We can be locked away in a cell and be freer than the millionaire in his high rise office. It is said freedom comes at great cost. How true that statement. Our freedom cost Jesus His life, God His Son. But oh what freedom we have.
“I will walk about in freedom, for I have sought out your precepts.” (Psalm 119:45 NIV) Many see ‘religion’ as the ultimate loss of freedom – I couldn’t agree more. Religion is manmade and full of fallible do’s and don’ts. But God didn’t call us to religion. He called us to follow.
Following Christ leads to us ‘walking about’ in freedom. It is freeing to know that whatever hardships we may have in this life, someday is waiting where hardships don’t exist. It is freeing to know that though we may struggle here, someday we shall be in want no more.
Someday – the ultimate hope of every follower of Jesus. Hope that does not disappoint, hope that sets us free. Free from selfish ways that lead to the detriment of others, from selfish ways that ultimately wind up being our demise. Free to find joy here in the midst of the worst storm, free to spread love even to our enemies.
Others will counter that God’s Word is full of commands, how is that freedom? Yet it’s the perfection of His ways that are our freedom. In choosing not to lie or steal I am free from guilt. In choosing not to commit adultery I am free from the anguish of wounding another.
“I run in the path of Your commands, for You have set my heart free.” (Psalm 119:32 NIV) Will we live perfectly? Not in this lifetime, but when we run in the path of His commands there is freedom for our souls for we are choosing to truly live in the land of the free.
***If you stopped by because you read my devotion today over at Encouragement Cafe, WELCOME! So glad you are here!***
parisrenae 