Since the beginning of recorded history, people have fought for freedom in various ways. From slaves seeking emancipation to colonised peoples seeking independence, human beings have demonstrated a strong desire to be free from oppression. However, the chains that have bound us the tightest have been the chains of sin. Two thousand years ago, Christ broke those chains. "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free," Paul said before urging, "Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery" (Galatians 5:1).
That advice should seem redundant because which slave, having been set free, would choose to put himself in shackles again? Yet, some of us choose to do precisely that. Of them, the proverbs are true: "A dog returns to its vomit," and "A pig that is washed returns to her wallowing in the mud." (2 Peter 2:22). I hope the imagery contained here will prevent us from returning to slavery. If not, perhaps these verses from Scripture might persuade us to choose freedom.
One verse speaks about the freedom believers have from the power of sin in their lives because of the grace of God. "For sin shall not have dominion over you, for you are not under law but under grace" (Romans 6:14). Sin has lost its power to control us, and we can live free lives through the grace of God.
Another verse highlights how believers can experience freedom from fear and bondage through their relationship with God as their loving Father. "For you did not receive the spirit of bondage again to fear, but you received the Spirit of adoption by whom we cry out, 'Abba, Father'" (Romans 8:15). What are you afraid of? There is no reason to be afraid of anything!
A third verse emphasizes that believers are truly free because of what Jesus Christ has accomplished for them through his death and resurrection. "Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed" (John 8:36). To be "free indeed" means to be truly and completely free, without any limitations or conditions. Isn't that amazing?
And a fourth verse speaks about the freedom believers have to serve God and others in love rather than using their freedom to indulge their fleshly desires. "For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another" (Galatians 5:13).
So, what say you? Shall we choose to live in freedom henceforth? Accept Christ if you haven't already. And if you have, live in perfect freedom!
God bless you.
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