Freedom –
It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5.1
We’re celebrating our Freedom in America today, the anniversary of our independence as a country. I can’t help but think of the greater freedom available through Jesus Christ. I, for one, am grateful that the freedom He offers is all-encompassing and available to all who trust in Him.
“I came to seek and to save the lost,” He said. “You shall know the truth and the truth shall set you free.”
He meant it.
I’m thankful today for this land of ours where we have so many liberties (I really don’t think of them as rights – more as privileges) including the freedom to do what is right, to worship and serve the Lord. I’m even more thankful for all that is ours/mine in Christ. He paid dearly for our freedom. It cost Him more than you and I will ever have. Yet He offers freedom to us and expects us to stand firm in that freedom.
– From the penalty of sin
Having paid the penalty once and for all with His blood, there’s nothing we can do to offer even a partial or token payment. He’d be insulted if we offered. The price has been paid. End of the matter. And all who place their trust in Him are granted a future free of sin’s penalty.
– From the power of sin
With a clean conscience, a clear record, and the Holy Spirit living within, we’re able to get from 9 am to 10, from noon to three, from after dinner to bed-time free from sin’s enslaving power. It allows us to face temptation toe to toe, whisper “you are not my master” and choose right over wrong. Sometimes the thing to do is resist. Sometimes it’s best to just leave. But Christ has set us free; we’re not subject to sin’s power when we live in His strength.
– From the presence of sin
I can’t wait! When we’re in Glory, enjoying Him forever, sin will be nowhere to be found. It’s hard to fathom sometimes, but I’m certainly ready, are you? The conflict of the ages will be history, God having proven once and for all that He was, is and will be God alone. Sin, death and Hell will be “all taken care of” and all will be well (see the end of Revelation 20 the beginning of Revelation 21 for details).
It’s humbling to think that Christ did it all. For us. Motivated by love we’ll not understand this side of Heaven. And given freely to everyone who believes He is who God says He is and places their confidence in Him for eternal life. But it’s true.
So today I’m enjoying and celebrating my dual citizenship. I’m a citizen of the best country in the world, and I’m a citizen of a land I’ve yet to see. I’m free here in America and I’m free in Christ. It’s time to enjoy and stand confidently in all we enjoy.
Happy Fourth of July!
