“For freedom, Christ set us free.
Stand firm then and don’t submit again to a yoke of slavery.”
– Galatians 5:1
On the day our nation celebrates Independence Day, we reflect on freedom as we have come to enjoy it and to some degree, take it for granted. We experience the turmoil in our nation and wonder who truly appreciates the freedom every citizen has in this country. It could be a disappearing privilege slowly evaporating under the guise of progress. We should thank God for what He gave to this nation upon its founding and pray for a renewal of men hearts to the Creator God.
A more encouraging word is to the reference of the verse above. We have been given spiritual freedom from the control and dominion of sin and the wrath it will bring as citizens of the Kingdom of God. There is nothing on this earth, nor any evil power or principality can take that away. Only the complacent and inattentive believer can fall prey to sin’s schemes if they are not always looking to Jesus and His Lordship. Even though the nation may be drenched in sin’s demoralizing grasp, believers are free in Christ and do not have to fear or despair. However, believers need to take seriously the spiritual warfare that is taking place and recognize the essential need of being in right relationship with God through His written Word. Because remember, His Word is truth and the truth will set you free. The truth will also keep you free. But the believer must remain in the Word. Read this passage from Psalm 19:7-11:
“The instruction of the Lord is perfect, renewing one’s life;
the testimony of the Lord is trustworthy, making the inexperienced wise.
The precepts of the Lord are right, making the heart glad;
the command of the Lord is radiant, making the eyes light up.
The fear of the Lord is pure, enduring forever;
the ordinances of the Lord are reliable and altogether righteous.
They are more desirable than gold— than an abundance of pure gold;
and sweeter than honey, which comes from a honeycomb.
In addition, Your servant is warned by them;
and in keeping them there is an abundant reward.”
The key to remaining free from the dominion of sin in your life is to keep the Word in your heart and life; it is instruction, God ‘s Word is trustworthy, His general rules for living are right, His commands enable us to see in through the darkness, there is no deception in the believer’s relationship with God, God’s laws are reliable and righteous, they’re better than gold and sweeter than honey, and His word warns of dangers and pitfalls that believers will face. But the freedom that comes from His Word renews, makes one wise, fills with joy, gives “aha!” moments, is eternal, and when obeyed and trusted brings abundant reward. That reward is freedom in Christ, from the world, from condemnation, and to living growing relationship with Jesus, and eternal life in heaven. Now that is freedom to have and to hold on to at any cost. Celebrate freedom in our country today, but celebrate freedom in Christ eternally!