Forgiven & Free
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” - John 8:36
Sometimes, the fewest words carry the biggest power; that is what we find in this scripture of only a dozen words. The message? Freedom!
In our world, freedom is not only challenging to find; it’s hard to even describe, yet it is something we all desire and fight for. What is freedom really? Does it give us the license to do whatever we please?
It cannot mean such a thing because, by common sense, that would infer my freedom would, at some point, impede your freedom. We cannot both do whatever we want at any given time and both remain free. It must mean something else.
Upon thinking deeper on these dozen words, this scripture indicates that in order to be free indeed, we must first be set free by the One who holds the keys to such. And if, as indicated, we are set free, then we can no longer be burdened by whatever the opposite of freedom is. One cannot be free and bound at the same time.
This freedom is life-changing. Paul and Silas were free while in prison, indicating this freedom comes from within, not without. We are free to forgive, to show grace, to love mercy, to offer kindness, to sacrifice, and to bless those who are undeserving of such. This freedom is to be unrestricted—to be Christ-like. This freedom is a soul freedom against which there are no restraints.
There is only one way to achieve this freedom, and that is to be set free from the chains of the old nature: the flesh. When we walk in the Spirit, we are free. When we live in the flesh, no freedom can be found.
Has the Son of God set you free? Then you are free indeed!
PRAY & BELIEVE
Father, I don’t feel free consistently. Too often, my soul feels tired and burdened by memories, feelings, and fears rearing their ugly head. I desire to live in this freedom—the one inside where no person can take it. Lord, give me wisdom to know how to walk in this freedom. The scripture says if You set me free, then I am free. I want to be free from my past and all that comes with it. I choose it, Lord. I hold it tightly and fight the desire to return to its chains. Give me courage to do so. Amen.
This devotional is an excerpt from Broken Home. Learn more about Austin’s 30-Day Devotional here or below.
