Freedom

One week ago we celebrated another Fourth of July, and once again we were reminded of the precious freedoms that we possess as a nation. The United States has been blessed by God with the kind of freedom that most of the world has never experienced. We cherish our declared rights of “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.”

However, at times it seems like Americans can be almost obsessed with “freedom.” Too many people want to do whatever they want – whenever they want – with whomever they want – no matter what the cost. As a result they are no longer as free as they believe, but are actually becoming enslaved by their so-called freedom.

For example, millions of Americans are enslaved to alcohol, drugs, pornography, sexual immorality, materialistic lifestyles, occult practices, etc. – all in the name of “freedom.” They may not even realize that they are spiritually, emotionally and physically enslaved until it’s too late.

Jesus Christ came into the world to set people free – including Americans. He came to set people free from the power and penalty of sin. Jesus said: “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin.” But he also said: “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free… So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”

(John 8:31-32,34,36)

Are you enslaved to some thought, habit or activity that is destroying your life? If you place your faith in Jesus Christ, he will first of all set you free from your spiritual slavery to sin which leads to eternal death. Then as you live with the power of God’s Holy Spirit in our life, he will begin to release you from every other area of bondage in your life.

None of us will ever be perfect this side of heaven, but as the Apostle Paul said: “Now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the benefit you reap leads to holiness, and the result is eternal life. For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

(Romans 6:22-23)

Pastor Doug Birky

Evangelical Free Church of Sidney