True Freedom From Slavery

True Freedom From Slavery

2 Peter 2: ¹⁷ These people are like dried-up springs, like clouds blown along by a storm; God has reserved a place for them in the deepest darkness. ¹⁸ They make proud and stupid statements, and use immoral bodily lusts to trap those who are just beginning to escape from among people who live in error. ¹⁹ They promise them freedom while they themselves are slaves of destructive habits—for we are slaves of anything that has conquered us. ²⁰ If people have escaped from the corrupting forces of the world through their knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, and then are again caught and conquered by them, such people are in worse condition at the end than they were at the beginning. ²¹ It would have been much better for them never to have known the way of righteousness than to know it and then turn away from the sacred command that was given them. ²² What happened to them shows that the proverbs are true: “A dog goes back to what it has vomited” and “A pig that has been washed goes back to roll in the mud.”

 

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After reaching a certain level, I figured people would listen to me. I flaunted my title and expected everyone to align to “my” statements because of the level. Wealth was an easy target to dangle in front of those who desired it. “If you work hard, then you can win an award” was the company line I believed in.

 

• I was a slave to power.
• I was a slave to money.
• I was a slave to being followed and giving “my” advice.

 

Peter concludes his warning to stay away from false teachers. He gives some startling truths regarding enslavement. The false teachers lured people back into destructive habits that people had escaped because of their belief in JESUS, enslaving them and taking away their hope.

 

My Observations:

• GOD is willing to cleanse me daily.
• True freedom is available to me when I follow what CHRIST says.
• There is hope for the addicted, the hopeless and the down-trodden through JESUS.

 

Following humans is okay, but following GOD is the best way to go. I mean, humans, even preachers and missionaries, can have an agenda that can lead to a false teaching of GOD’s love to get his or her lustful way. GOD sees this kind of manipulation and is not pleased with it , at all! Fortunately there is another way.

 

JESUS forgives and is willing to heal those who struggle with something he or she knows is not good for them. HE has faced every type of temptation and cares for you and me. HE, however, wants HIS followers to be wise and to not follow flattering words that may take people away from HIS love. I am glad GOD cares enough for me to guide me away from myself and protect me from those who do not care about HIS precious name.

 

Challenge

• What corrupting forces is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever been worried about something or have you been stuck doing something you know is not good for you?
• Will you reduce following humans who may be manipulating you to get his or her way and seek GOD’s way that can set you free today?

Truly Free

 

Truly Free

Hebrews 9: ¹⁵ For this reason Christ is the one who arranges a new covenant, so that those who have been called by God may receive the eternal blessings that God has promised. This can be done because there has been a death which sets people free from the wrongs they did while the first covenant was in effect.

 

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Sitting in the classroom, I stared out the window, longing to be outside. When the bell rang, we were released for the day, but destined to return the next and the next and the next. “When will I be free?” I wondered.

 

• It seemed like I would be there forever.
• It seemed like I was serving a sentence.
• It seemed like I was being kept from enjoyment.

 

Paul, the assumed writer, tells everyone about the “new covenant” that was arranged by JESUS. He mentions that JESUS died to set free, those who believe in HIM. HIS death would also cover those who died following the Law.

 

My Observations:

• My definition of freedom is marred by sin.
• My daydreams of what freedom looks like usually do not include GOD.
• Admitting I have wrong in my life can be hard when I have too much pride to do so, therefore I remain in bondage, BUT JESUS sets me free when I admit I need HIM.

 

Worldly freedom can place me in bondage. I mean, when I am free to do as I please, I usually will not choose to follow JESUS. Instead I will justify why I need to get “my” way and try to convince others that “my” way is okay. BUT GOD sees through my false freedom.

 

HE wants me to see that I am trying to live a lie, but will allow me to do so until I can say, “LORD I need you to open my eyes to the lie I am living.” HE is willing to heal the blind and give us freedom from the sins we so easily fall into. I am glad JESUS gives true freedom.

 

Challenge

• What freedom is the writer talking about?
• Have you ever wanted to be “free?”
• Will you examine your definition of “freedom” to see if it aligns with GOD so HE can truly make you free today?

Invisible Slavery

 

Invisible Slavery

Colossians 3: ²² Slaves, obey your human masters in all things, not only when they are watching you because you want to gain their approval; but do it with a sincere heart because of your reverence for the Lord. ²³ Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as though you were working for the Lord and not for people. ²⁴ Remember that the Lord will give you as a reward what he has kept for his people. For Christ is the real Master you serve. ²⁵ And all wrongdoers will be repaid for the wrong things they do, because God judges everyone by the same standard.

 

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Despising my job had become paramount in my life. When I punched out on Thursday night, my weekend was supposed to begin. Instead of relaxing, I groused that I needed to be back at work Sunday night. “I hate this job!” I thought to myself when I heard of stories of people having “fun” while I was working.

 

“Slaves” is a difficult word to get over and so is the word “master.” Humans have used these categories to debase people and force people to do “work” while they lived a life of luxury. When Paul wrote this letter, acceptable categories of “worker” did not exist. He told those who did the work to do it for CHRIST.

 

My Observations

• Greedy people will always want someone to work for them, BUT GOD sees my heart when I work for HIM.
• Title seekers want to be in control of the workforce, BUT GOD wants me to recognize CHRIST as the real “boss” who owns my life.
• Micromanagers may hover over my shoulder as I clean a toilet for work, BUT GOD wants all my heart and HE sees my work and rewards it when I give it to HIM.

 

Relabeling work to acceptable titles has made “slavery” invisible and acceptable. I mean, I despised being a janitor because of the hours away from “fun.” But when I got a “career” job I spent double the hours away from “fun.” My job had me in an invisible slavery that made me money and kept me from speaking about JESUS.

 

GOD despises hierarchies, especially those created to hold another human “down.’ HE sees injustice and has a plan to repay all who try to keep others from reaching HIS plan. CHRIST is the only leader who deserves to be bowed down to. I gladly give all my work to HIM.

 

Challenge

• What words form the writer jump out at you?
• Have you ever had a job you did not like and did it only for the money?
• Until GOD moves you to something else, will you consider dong your “work” for HIM?
• If you manage people, will you consider the fact that GOD is watching you and will repay you with how you treated HIS people?

Stay Freed

Stay Freed

Colossians 2: ²⁰ You have died with Christ and are set free from the ruling spirits of the universe. Why, then, do you live as though you belonged to this world? Why do you obey such rules as ²¹ “Don't handle this,” “Don't taste that,” “Don't touch the other”? ²² All these refer to things which become useless once they are used; they are only human rules and teachings. ²³ Of course such rules appear to be based on wisdom in their forced worship of angels, and false humility, and severe treatment of the body; but they have no real value in controlling physical passions.

 

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Moving to a new city gave me a chance to start over. I’m going to leave my “old” ways and start fresh, I thought to myself. But after a while, I found myself lonely. I wonder if I should go back to my partying lifestyle, I thought.

 

• I had second thoughts about following CHRIST.
• I justified my thoughts by saying “This is boring.”
• I felt like I needed to return to something familiar than traverse the unknown with JESUS.

 

Paul addressed the problem of people worshiping angels, idols and food. Those who had bee set free by believing in JESUS were considering rules that would put them into a worse situation. These rules were “useless.”

 

My Observations

• When I am feeling lonely, I open myself up to the world’s ways, BUT GOD is always there for me.
• When I want to get ahead in life I am susceptible to deceptive ways, BUT THE HOLY SPIRIT will not let me go to places I should not be.
• When I am too busy or harassed or frightened, I am vulnerable to accepting desperate solutions that put me in much worse situations, BUT GOD is there to pick up my brokenness.

 

Leaving JESUS to follow the world seems quick and easy, but can be detrimental. I mean, once I have been freed from the bondage of sin, I should not return to it, right? Of course not! But that’s what I want to do. I seek the comforts sin brings me and I find myself following the world’s very strong beliefs.

 

After a while, I look just like the world saying “Don’t eat that” or “Don’t handle that.” These rules are not of GOD. HE wants me to remain freed and preach the value of being forgiven. All my sins have been washed away. I have died with CHRIST. I am grateful for the new life HE has given me.

 

Challenge

• What question is the writer posing?
• Have you found yourself following human rules because you were frightened or ambitious or had a moment of weakness?
• Will you focus on the freedom CHRIST has given you so your decisions will not turn out disastrous from a spiritual perspective?

New Employer

New Employer

Ephesians 6: ⁵ Slaves, obey your human masters with fear and trembling; and do it with a sincere heart, as though you were serving Christ. ⁶ Do this not only when they are watching you, because you want to gain their approval; but with all your heart do what God wants, as slaves of Christ. ⁷ Do your work as slaves cheerfully, as though you served the Lord, and not merely human beings. ⁸ Remember that the Lord will reward each of us, whether slave or free, for the good work we do.

 

⁹ Masters, behave in the same way toward your slaves and stop using threats. Remember that you and your slaves belong to the same Master in heaven, who judges everyone by the same standard.

 

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Finding a bathroom that was seldom used, I went into a stall for a nap. It was a summer job and my responsibilities didn’t seem to matter. “So what if the copier was not full of paper?” I justified in my mind.

 

• I justified whatever action I wanted to do.
• I felt they would not miss me when I was goofing off.
• I still expected to be paid for the hours I was not working.

 

Paul addressed the workforce, which was no small topic. Some people had complaints about the work he or she was doing. Others complained about their employer. Some employers complained about their employees. Still others were taken into slavery against their will. What was the answer to this huge mess? Work for a new employer.

 

My Observations

• My mindset towards work should be focused on pleasing GOD.
• My zeal to be promoted should be tempered by doing what is pleasing to the LORD.
• My dislike for what I do for work should be filtered through GOD’s reward HE is storing up for me in heaven.

 

Involuntary slavery is abysmal and those who steal people for their personal gain should be reckoned with harshly by GOD. But what about voluntary slavery, also known as jobs? GOD wants employees and employers to see HIM in everything we do.

GOD is the answer to treating people fairly in the workforce. Unfortunately, inequity reigns supreme. A solution is to keep going by working for the LORD. HE sees when you are overlooked, underpaid and slighted. HE also sees when you take time and material for yourself that belongs to your employer, or when you mistreat employees. I am glad GOD “sees me” in all I do.

 

Challenge

• Is this passage hard to read?
• If you are an employee or an employer, what changes can you make based on your relationship to GOD?
• Will you seek equality and fairness, knowing GOD is watching and rewarding you for your attitude towards HIM versus trying to get ahead by pleasing humans today?

Bad Fruit

Bad Fruit

Galatians 5: ¹⁹ What human nature does is quite plain. It shows itself in immoral, filthy, and indecent actions; ²⁰ in worship of idols and witchcraft. People become enemies and they fight; they become jealous, angry, and ambitious. They separate into parties and groups; ²¹ they are envious, get drunk, have orgies, and do other things like these. I warn you now as I have before: those who do these things will not possess the Kingdom of God.

 

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Continuing on yesterday’s thought, I remember being excited about going to college where I found “freedom” to do what “everybody” else was doing. When I joined in with the group I liked, I was able to get drunk, have as much sex as I wanted and join in on a few battles with malicious words. I found myself not attending classes, then I was kicked out. The “fun” group was not there to help.

 

• I was on a path to destroying myself and others.
• I cared so much about experiencing pleasure that I was blind to my own actions.
• I wanted to fit in with a group that was trying to use “fun” as a medication to life’s difficulties.

 

Paul provides a list that could be confusing. He lists actions that some would ask “what’s wrong with that?” He is warning people about their “purpose” in life. The list is not about a specific sin, it is about life’s pursuits. His warning is, if people pursue yielding to human nature too long, eventually he or she will not be able to hear GOD.

 

My Observations

• Recognizing that I am blinded by my own desires helps me see GOD.
• Asking GOD to give me strength to ignore the things that are barriers to hearing HIM puts me back on HIS path.
• Knowing that JESUS died for all my sins helps me when I fall.

 

Believing in JESUS enables me to possess the Kingdom of GOD. But what happens if I sin? If I confess my sins HE is faithful and just to forgive me of my sins and cleanse me of all unrighteousness. Getting back to the passage, it is about life’s pursuits that GOD is looking at.

 

HE knows when I am pursuing “my” own kingdom versus HIS. HE let’s be bear bad fruit, thinking my crowd can “support” me through life’s difficulties. HE allows my bad fruit to grow into horrible situations that may have affected many. Fortunately, HE always makes a way back to HIM. I am grateful I can run back to GOD and HE welcomes me with open forgiving arms.

 

Challenge

• Is there any part of the list the writer brings that would concern you?
• Do you find yourself justifying your own actions with a group?
• Will you stop listening to your human nature and confess to GOD that your life may be on a dangerous path and you need HIS help to guide you back to HIM today?

Called to be Free

Called to be Free

Galatians 5: ¹³ As for you, my friends, you were called to be free. But do not let this freedom become an excuse for letting your physical desires control you. Instead, let love make you serve one another. ¹⁴ For the whole Law is summed up in one commandment: “Love your neighbor as you love yourself.” ¹⁵ But if you act like wild animals, hurting and harming each other, then watch out, or you will completely destroy one another.

 

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Freedom was something rarely preached in the churches I have attended. Come to think of it, I have never heard “freedom” preached, rather lists of things to do. When the lists do not work, then I felt I was in worse bondage than before. I would doubt GOD’s power because the list of “to do’s” was not working.

 

• I wanted freedom but I wanted it “my” way.
• I wanted wealth, power and pleasure as my definition of “freedom.”
• I wanted what I wanted without regards to what someone else needed.

 

Paul reminds everyone that JESUS provided true freedom. HE gave one single command that enables us to fulfill the entire Law: “Love your neighbor as you love yourself.” There is nothing more “to do.”

 

My Observations

• GOD’s love for me set me free from my sins.
• GOD wants other people to be set free and believe in HIS SON as the only Savior.
• Once I am freed from my sins, I can choose to be part of GOD’s family and serve others with the same love I have for myself.

 

Freedom is confusing. I mean, many preachers would stay away from saying “You are free to sin because JESUS forgave you for all your sins”, but this is a true statement. When I believe in JESUS, eternal death was no longer my path. But something strange happened.

 

GOD then filled me with the HOLY SPIRIT, making sin less desirable. HE then opened my eyes to my “neighbor” and whispers “Serve him or her even though he or she may not look or act like you.” I am grateful I am free to let people choose and I do not have to control their actions, only mine.

 

Challenge

• What “freedom” is the writer speaking of?
• Do you feel like you can let GOD down by your actions or inactions?
• Will you get rid of trying so hard and purely believe that JESUS loves you and be filled up today to simply “be” HIS child today?

Stand as Free

Stand as Free

Galatians 5:1 Freedom is what we have—Christ has set us free! Stand, then, as free people, and do not allow yourselves to become slaves again.

 

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When things were going well, I found myself in the same pattern. I did not pray as much, nor did I mind sinning as much. But when trouble came, I was fervent in prayer and I tried to walk straight.

 

• I was trying to control my life.
• I was not sure if GOD was really on my side.
• I thought I could manipulate GOD by “doing” more.

 

Church leaders were prescribing more to “do” but Paul was sent by JESUS to give everyone rest. Freedom is something that CHRIST has provided for all who believe in a Savior. No longer do we need to show GOD we are wrong by doing the Law.

 

My Observations

• Peace is a gift GOD wants me to have, so I accept it.
• Joy is part of the fruit of the SPIRIT, so I embrace it.
• Rest is the place GOD wants to take me to, so I can start now.

 

Attempting to fulfill all of the Law proved impossible for all humans except one. JESUS knew how to navigate life without committing one single sin. HIS creation was busy trying to get others to not believe in HIM but to follow their preaching and remain blind.

 

Weak leaders want to be the solution and to grow a following. BUT GOD wants all of us to point to HIM and depend on HIS mercy and grace. Sin no longer has control over the situation. Whether I sin or not GOD’s power prevails. I am glad HIS decisions of love for me are not based on my actions but through faith.

 

Challenge

• What does freedom look like to you?
• Can you be free, yet choose to be a slave to GOD?
• Will you stop trying so hard to please GOD and seek HIS kingdom by spreading the Good News of forgiveness, love and mercy today?

Freedom is Our Mother

Freedom is Our Mother

Galatians 4: ²¹ Let me ask those of you who want to be subject to the Law: do you not hear what the Law says? ²² It says that Abraham had two sons, one by a slave woman, the other by a free woman. ²³ His son by the slave woman was born in the usual way, but his son by the free woman was born as a result of God's promise. ²⁴ These things can be understood as a figure: the two women represent two covenants. The one whose children are born in slavery is Hagar, and she represents the covenant made at Mount Sinai. ²⁵ Hagar, who stands for Mount Sinai in Arabia, is a figure of the present city of Jerusalem, in slavery with all its people. ²⁶ But the heavenly Jerusalem is free, and she is our mother. ²⁷ For the scripture says,

 

“Be happy, you childless woman!

    Shout and cry with joy, you who never felt the pains of childbirth!

For the woman who was deserted will have more children

    than the woman whose husband never left her.”

 

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Wanting to live “right” I decided to start over. My life was not going as well as I would have liked, so I pursued GOD for a change. I attended church regularly and went to a bible college to learn more. I soon felt bad about my relationship with GOD because of all the rules humans put in place to “follow the rules.”

 

• I felt obligated to “do” a lot.
• I felt like GOD was ready to punish me if I did the slightest sin.
• I felt more confined trying to follow the Law so I could “please” GOD.

 

What sets us free, our actions or GOD’s loving grace? Paul tackles this difficult question by tearing down a cultural norm. Church leaders at that time wanted to categorize people as “sinners” for not following the Law. Pharisees made rules to follow the rules. They were putting people in bondage versus setting them free.

 

My Observations

• Free will was given to me as a gift.
• I am freed from the eternal consequence of my sins because I believe that JESUS is GOD who rose from the dead after becoming a human and being murdered by HIS creation.
• I choose to refrain from temptation to keep my mind clear enough to hear the soft voice of GOD as HE speaks through HIS Word.

 

The Law doesn’t save us, JESUS does, so being “good” will never get me anywhere. I mean, I cannot rely on thinking I can be “good” enough to merit any favor with GOD. JESUS fulfilled the promise given through mother Sarah. She and Mary had miraculous pregnancies.

 

Belief in JESUS means I am forgiven for my sins and no longer have to walk the tightrope of perfection. This is Good News! Now, I can choose to follow what GOD says and be rewarded for when I choose HIS ways. HE desires to bring all of HIS creations back to HIM. GODS is not an achievement, HE is GOD. I am glad HE freed me.

 

Challenge

• What sticks out to you in this passage?
• Have you ever felt that GOD was distant because you were not getting your way?
• Will you know that GOD is already pleased with you and you do not have to “do” more, or “give” more or “hurt” more so you can get your way?
• Will you simply “be” HIS child by loving JESUS today?

Bound Freedom

Bound Freedom

1 Corinthians 7: ³⁹ A married woman is not free as long as her husband lives; but if her husband dies, then she is free to be married to any man she wishes, but only if he is a Christian. ⁴⁰ She will be happier, however, if she stays as she is. That is my opinion, and I think that I too have God's Spirit.

 

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“I can’t wait until I am adult” I thought to myself. I had too many rules to follow and I wanted to be “free.” Little did I know that when I grew up, the “rules” provided me with freedom.

 

• When I was immature, I saw the “rules” as the problem.
• When I was unaware, I saw the “rules” as a barrier to my “freedom.”
• When I was being lied to, I saw the “rules” as a way to hold me down from having “fun.”

 

Paul concludes answering the questions sent to him about marriage. He provides guidance for widows concerning remarriage. He did this by focusing in on the SPIRIT of the LORD and aligning his response with GOD’s desires.

 

• GOD wants me to be free within HIS rules.
• GOD wants me to be free from the world but follow HIS rules while living in the world.
• GOD wants me to be free from the slavery of sin so I can speak about HIS SON.

 

Sin will lie about freedom. I mean, sin will tell me that it is better than following GOD’s rules. Single moments of selfishness or hatred or pleasure usually end up in worse situations, but sin would make me think those things bring freedom.

 

GOD wants me to see that by being bound to HIM, I am set free. The sin that so easily tosses me around, causing more turmoil in my life, no longer enslaves me. Yes, I sin. But GOD’s amazing grace is sufficient to cleanse me of the unrighteousness I so easily fall into. I gladly bind myself to GOD so I can receive HIS freedom.

 

• Do you long to be “free?”
• What is in your heart that actually enslaves you?
• Will you ask GOD to set you free from all the things that hold you back from true freedom today?

True Freedom

 

True Freedom

1 Corinthians 6: ¹² Someone will say, “I am allowed to do anything.” Yes; but not everything is good for you. I could say that I am allowed to do anything, but I am not going to let anything make me its slave. ¹³ Someone else will say, “Food is for the stomach, and the stomach is for food.” Yes; but God will put an end to both. The body is not to be used for sexual immorality, but to serve the Lord; and the Lord provides for the body. ¹⁴ God raised the Lord from death, and he will also raise us by his power.

 

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After a string of disturbing news, I felt I had the right to “blow off some steam.” “Come with us to the convention” a few “friends” said. When we arrived, I was amazed. The streets were full of prostitutes, which excited the group I was with even more. I couldn’t do it, even though I was feeling low.

 

There have been times when I turned to sex as the wrong answer to my dilemma.

There have been times when I thought sex would fix the current problems.

There have been times when I fooled myself into thinking sex could bring enough gratification to overcome that trial.

 

Arguments over “what is allowed to do with the body?” are addressed by Paul. He explains that everything is allowed, but not everything is good for you. He talks about addictions, food and sex. These things can enslave a person, taking their minds off of their true purpose.

 

GOD made me for HIS purpose, not mine.

GOD takes care of my wants and needs.

GOD is the only path to true freedom, because it is HIM who provides.

 

“What about this life?” one may ask when it comes to GOD. I mean, we speak about the afterlife and eternal life, but what about the here and now? GOD cares about that too. HE “provides for the body” now and forever more.

 

GOD cares about me and HE cares about my neighbor. HE loves us all and wants me to be part of HIS love. HE made me for HIS purpose and wants me to focus on that. HE provides true freedom that addictions cannot. I am grateful GOD has purpose for me. My body is not “mine” but HIS.

 

Do you think your body is yours to do as you see fit?

Have you been enslaved by food, sex or another addiction?

Will you stop looking at temporary relief and allow GOD to truly set you free so you can live a life of abundance and purpose that only GOD has for you today?

True Freedom

 

True Freedom

Acts 28: ²⁸ “Therefore I want you to know that God’s salvation has been sent to the Gentiles, and they will listen!” ²⁹ After he said this, the Jews left, arguing vigorously among themselves. 

 

³⁰ For two whole years Paul stayed there in his own rented house and welcomed all who came to see him. ³¹ He proclaimed the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ—with all boldness and without hindrance!

 

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Mad at “them”, I refused to go to church. I mean “they” were hypocrites. When I had sex with someone, I could not speak to that person about JESUS. By the time I grew up to forgive the “hypocrites” I had a career that kept me quite busy.

 

I could not proclaim JESUS because the position paid me well and I “assumed” they would not tolerate me teaching about HIM. When I was out of work I was finally free to speak about JESUS.

 

• There were times when life kept me from speaking about GOD.
• There were times when I thought I had a “good’ excuse for not speaking about JESUS.
• There were times when jobs, relationships and worries of life kept me from mentioning the FATHER, SON and the HOLY SPIRIT.

 

Luke finishes his letter to Theophilus, summing up Paul’s discussion. Paul told the church leaders that the Messiah, JESUS, had arrived and because they did not believe HE was and is the Messiah, GOD’s salvation would be spread to the Gentiles. Paul stayed in Rome speaking with boldness about JESUS without hindrance.

 

• GOD wants me to know JESUS as the truth.
• GOD wants me to be set free by the truth.
• GOD wants me to speak boldly about JESUS who is the truth.

 

“The truth will set you free”, JESUS said. HE also says “If the SON sets you free, you will be free indeed.” What does freedom even look like?” I said to myself. I mean, bills piled up, relationships breaking all over the place and jobs hard to find. How can I be free? BUT GOD looks at my situations different.

 

GOD gently forgives me and opens my eyes to HIM as the answer to all my problems. When I grab onto JESUS, HE opens my mouth to thank HIM and to speak boldly about HIM. Soon the excuses dwindle and my fears turn into HIS protection. I am glad JESUS truly has set me free.

 

• Is something keeping you from speaking boldly about JESUS?
• Do you fear what humans will think of you if you spoke about JESUS?
• Will you recognize the bondage you are in and allow GOD to protect you while you speak about JESUS without hindrance today?

Free at Last

Free at Last

Acts 12: ⁵ Peter was therefore kept in prison, but constant prayer was offered to God for him by the church. ⁶ And when Herod was about to bring him out, that night Peter was sleeping, bound with two chains between two soldiers; and the guards before the door were keeping the prison. ⁷ Now behold, an angel of the Lord stood by him, and a light shone in the prison; and he struck Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, “Arise quickly!” And his chains fell off his hands. ⁸ Then the angel said to him, “Gird yourself and tie on your sandals”; and so he did. And he said to him, “Put on your garment and follow me.” ⁹ So he went out and followed him, and did not know that what was done by the angel was real, but thought he was seeing a vision. ¹⁰ When they were past the first and the second guard posts, they came to the iron gate that leads to the city, which opened to them of its own accord; and they went out and went down one street, and immediately the angel departed from him.

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Waking up with no meetings felt strange. No email to check and no phone calls to make was new to me. The elimination of the position I held was now real. All of the things I said I had no time for was brought to mind. I’m not talking about a “to do” list, rather GOD was asking me “Do you have time for ME now?”

• There were times when I just wanted to be free.
• There were times when I didn’t want responsibilities.
• There were times when I dreamed of being on my own schedule.

Peter was heavily guarded and bound with chains between guards. Those who did not believe in the resurrection of JESUS, may have thought this measure of security would prevent any deception from happening. BUT GOD never deceives. HE sent an angel to free Peter.

• GOD wants me to be free indeed.
• GOD wants me to be loosed from strongholds.
• GOD wants me to be lifted out of addictions.

Life has many holes for me to fall into. Desires for more stuff or lust over people, power or positions can cause me to get stuck on things that bind me, never seeing GOD in my daily walk.

GOD wants me to be freed up so I can speak about HIM another day. The pursuit of wealth and pleasure can bind the soul, but the pursuit of GOD’s kingdom frees the spirit. I am grateful JESUS has set me free. I am free indeed.

• Are you stuck in or on something?
• Do you feel locked up and want to be free?
• Will you give your life to JESUS so HE will become your purpose and you will be free, even in the place you want to run away from?

Freed Indeed

Freed Indeed

John 8: ³¹ Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed. ³² And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”

³³ They answered Him, “We are Abraham’s descendants, and have never been in bondage to anyone. How can You say, ‘You will be made free’?”

³⁴ Jesus answered them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. ³⁵ And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever. ³⁶ Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.

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Discussing it with the person who sublet the apartment for the summer, I planned this particular sin. I did not want to be disturbed, so I asked for privacy. It was my first time doing this so my heart raced each time I thought of what I was getting into. Afterwards, it was all I could think of.

• Sometimes sin rules my thoughts.
• Sometimes sin guides my actions.
• Sometimes sin seems like a good idea, especially since “everyone else is doing it.”

JESUS told those who believed in HIM how to be free. “If you abide in MY word, you are MY disciples indeed.” Then HE said “You will know the truth and the truth will make you free.” “We have never been slaves”, they replied. “Sure you have… You are slaves to sin.”

• JESUS wants me to admit I am a slave to sin and I do not deserve to live with a sinless GOD.
• JESUS wants me to believe HE is the only cure for my sin because HE died as a sinless human and was raised from the dead, placed over everything as GOD.
• JESUS wants me to confess my sin willingly so HE would be willing to cleanse me of ALL sins.

Abiding in JESUS’s word sound constrictive, but it truly is freeing. I am now free to live without the burden of eternal separation from GOD. When I study HIS word, I find out what pleases and displeases GOD. No longer is HE such a mystery.

I can serve others and live my life with a purpose. I am free to speak about HIM and let people know JESUS is the only way to freedom. I am grateful HE has freed me indeed!

• What are you bound to?
• Is there something or things in your life you absolutely are not willing to let go of, that are not pleasing to GOD?
• Will you allow the HOLY SPIRIT to guide you to HIS purpose in JESUS today?

Freedom to do What I Want

Jeremiah 42: ² Azariah son of Hoshaiah and Johanan son of Kareah and all the arrogant men said to Jeremiah, “You are lying! The Lord our God has not sent you to say, ‘You must not go to Egypt to settle there.’

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⁴ So Johanan son of Kareah and all the army officers and all the people disobeyed the Lord’s command to stay in the land of Judah.

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⁷ So they entered Egypt in disobedience to the Lord and went as far as Tahpanhes.

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“Don’t go outside” was my punishment imposed on my infraction. I have no idea what I did, but staying inside the house on a summer day was too great of a sentence. My friend next door said, “Come over and play. Just climb out your window and play for a little while.” I thought, “What would the harm be?” I mean I would be “inside”, just inside my neighbor’s house.

The climb seemed treacherous. The window was a good six feet from the ground. I made it down, played and realized when I returned, I had no way back in. How was I going to explain this?

• There have been times when I have disobeyed.
• There have been times when I have looked at the sentence and said “I do not deserve that.”
• There have been times when I have gotten myself in even more trouble because of my disobedience.

Sin brings on more sin. I heard my mother calling for me and I snuck in the back door and hid. After a while the entire block was looking for me with the police. I emerged from behind the couch hours later to extremely worried parents. My disobedience had now affected over a hundred people.

• GOD wants me to be obedient as much as I can.
• GOD knows I have a sin nature and understands I have to actually decide to follow HIM each day.
• GOD provides me with grace and mercy though I do not deserve it.

My parents released me from my punishment and talked to me instead. I did not understand their words but I’m sure they meant well. I gave the automatic response of “I don’t know” so we could get this conversation over. Looking back I can see that disobedience of GOD is the same. It not only affects me, many others are brought down with me. GOD wants me to follow HIM because HIS path is so much better. I am free to do what I want and the more I choose GOD the better I am.

• Are you tired of following the rules?
• Do you think you deserve better from GOD?
• Can you stop thinking more highly of yourself and become obedient to GOD?
• Will you allow HIM to work in your life by obeying HIS word?

Comfortable with Knowledge

Job 11: ⁷ “Can you fathom the mysteries of God?
    Can you probe the limits of the Almighty?
⁸ They are higher than the heavens above—what can you do?
    They are deeper than the depths below—what can you know?
⁹ Their measure is longer than the earth
    and wider than the sea.

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After I finished counting the offering, I added the amounts into the books. I didn’t really hear the sermon because I was busy. “GOD will understand” I thought to myself. I mean, I’m in a church, working so HE should understand I’m too busy for prayer and listening. I’m saved so I don’t really have to pursue GOD anymore, right?

• Sometimes I get comfortable with my salvation.
• Sometimes I think “GOD won’t mind” when I neglect talking to HIM or praying to HIM.
• Sometimes I am too busy for GOD.

I was so busy in the church that I had no time for GOD. I mean I had books to keep, reports to get out and stuff to do. I was also the head of the Trustees, so I had a lot on my plate. GOD will understand if I miss a few sermons and miss praying for people and miss serving people directly right? I mean I’m serving them indirectly so doesn’t that count?

• GOD loves everything I do for HIM, but sometimes I need to slow down to listen to HIM.
• GOD loves everything I do for HIM, but HE is not achievement based rather relationship based.
• GOD loves everything I do for HIM, but HE does not want me building up a pile of works so I can bargain with HIM later trying to get out of my sin.

GOD knows I would probably come to HIM and say “See… I did XYZ, so YOU should forgive me for 123” but that’s not how HE works. The fact of the matter is, I don’t truly know how HE works and I should not be comfortable with having a relationship with HIM. GOD cannot be harnessed ass a weapon nor can HE be bribed to do my bidding.

GOD is supreme in HIS plan and I must follow HIM with fear and trembling.

• Are you taking your relationship with GOD for granted?
• Do you think HE owes you something for your little service you did last week?
• Can you stop thinking GOD owes you something and serve HIM without expectation?
• Will you reach out to HIM today and say “I love YOU LORD” to HIM and leave it at that?

Don’t mistake prosperity for GOD’s blessing

Judges 18: ³⁰ There the Danites set up for themselves the idol, and Jonathan son of Gershom, the son of Moses, and his sons were priests for the tribe of Dan until the time of the captivity of the land.³¹ They continued to use the idol Micah had made, all the time the house of God was in Shiloh.

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Dressed in my new suit, I ventured into a huge church.  This place seemed to have everything!  When I sat on one of the lavish pews I noticed several women sitting near me. I noticed this the next week and the next. Finally a couple of them introduced themselves but similar to that of being in a club.

The preacher drove a lavish car and the sermons were about how to live in prosperity. Meanwhile, I noticed the deacons sneaking peeks at the women and winking at me as if to say, “You didn’t see that.” The crowd was huge and since this was one of my first efforts to go back to church I said to myself, “This place is better than the clubs!”

• Sometimes I can be fooled by fake prosperity.
• Sometimes I can be fooled into thinking immense wealth will bring me closer to GOD.
• Sometimes I can be fooled into seeking a place where I won’t be corrected so I can do what I want and blame it on GOD.

The Danites stole an idol and attacked peaceful people out of ignorance of what GOD desired for them. They worshipped the idol and broke one of the major commandments of GOD. I can relate to this because I was ignorant to what GOD wanted for me and when I got to the church where the preaching tickled my ears, I felt great!

• GOD told me HIS word is like a two edge sword, it cuts the preacher and the receiver.
• GOD told me HIS word applies to every human so I should look at my flaws before I make statements.
• GOD told me HIS word is above any thought I could dream up so it’s best that I follow HIS ways.

Prosperity comes and goes, BUT GOD is here forever.  When HE said “I will never leave you nor forsake you” HE also meant HE would hang around and correct those who believe in HIM. The country I live in emphasizes two things way too much, money and sex.

It blinds us to our many other flaws like prejudice, hatred, slander, corruption and divisiveness to name a few. GOD made it easy, “love one another as I have loved you.” This simple command is easy to remember and breaks down any pitiful cause focused on one single sin.

• Are you in a building calling itself a church that is not following GOD?
• Do you feel GOD wanting you to grow?
• Are you studying and learning about HIM?
• Can you add “loving others” to your plan today?

Admitting it gives me power

Numbers 5: ⁵ The Lord said to Moses, ⁶ “Speak to the people of Israel. Say to them, ‘Suppose a man or woman does something wrong to someone else. Then that person is not being faithful to the Lord. People like that are guilty.

⁷ “‘They must admit they have committed a sin. They must pay in full for what they did wrong. And they must add a fifth to it. Then they must give all of it to the person they have sinned against.

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One day I decided to stop lying and admit stuff.  It seemed like the weeks that followed were full of opportunities for me to stretch the truth. My boss had asked me if I had completed a certain report. I thought to myself “say I’ve started it but I ran into difficulty” but the real answer was “no” and that’s what I told him but I also explained I was busy with other items. He accepted the truth.

You mean all I had to do was admit I was wrong.  I started doing this all over. Soon I was able to face my fears and sometimes I didn’t get the thing I really desired but my conscience remained clear.

• When I do something wrong to someone I don’t want to admit it.
• When I shirk my responsibility I don’t want to admit it.
• When I mess up I don’t want to admit it.

GOD made an enormous number of laws for humans to follow.  If one law was broken, then I would be guilty of all. HE made it much easier on me by dying for my guilt. I must admit I am in need of HIS death, burial and resurrection in order to have a relationship with HIM.

• GOD wants me to admit I am a person who doesn’t like HIS ways.
• GOD wants me to admit I deserve to be separated from HIS love.
• GOD wants me to admit I need HIM rather than thinking I can clean myself up.
• GOD wants me to admit I am guilty but I can be freed from guilt by belief in HIS actions.

Admitting things to humans is difficult but liberating. The sin holds no power when I admit my wrong. Admitting things to GOD is even more powerful!

• Are you in the wrong and haven’t admitted it?
• Have you committed a sin and in your mind you have spun it around to make it look like the other person?
• Can you admit your guilt to GOD?
• Don’t you want to be free?