There was once a bird who lived in a cage. The door was left open, but the bird did not fly away because it was used to the confines of the cage. How much like this bird we are.
Jesus died to set us free, yet we do not walk out of our own cages—many of them self-created. The price was paid for our complete freedom, yet we must take the chance and step into it. Jesus paid the highest price so that we can.
The word indeed means to add to or strengthen a previous statement, without question, undeniably, incontestable, indisputable, and inarguable. To be “free indeed” is to be free without question. It cannot be argued, disputed, or denied.
Although we despise our bondage, it’s what we know. We understand how to manage it. Freedom can be scary if we’ve lived in bondage for years. It requires a new way of living and thinking. Our mind—the way we think—is the beginning and end of our troubles.
To walk in freedom means trusting the One who bought our freedom. But trust doesn’t always come easy. It requires trusting God enough to actually live in freedom. So often, we receive freedom but never experience the full benefits because we spend our entire lives trying not to lose that freedom. It’s similar to the difference between playing to win a game and playing not to lose a game. Only one produces true victory.
To live trying not to lose our freedom is like saying we earned it so we can somehow lose it. True freedom brings rest—a rest knowing the God who set us free is able to keep us free. We may be physically free, but if we constantly feel as if one little thing can push us over the edge, our mind is not free. As a man thinks, so is he.
Are you walking in freedom daily? Ask God to help you. Your confidence will grow, and your trust will lead you to rest in His freedom.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)
(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)
As a Christian woman, Renee Hymel feels strongly about encouraging others. She believes we are called to encourage each other as we ourselves have been encouraged. Renee has the opportunity to spend much time alone with the Lord and has reaped encouragement from Him which she passes on to others. She believes every situation in life, good or bad, has a lesson if we remain teachable. Out of these situations come devotions for the benefit of others. Renee is currently in leadership at The Church International and leads the Worldwide Mom’s Day of Prayer ministry along with a ladies life group. Regardless of the title or position, she believes she is called to build, equip, and encourage others in their walk with the Lord.