Sweet Freedom

I woke up this morning with this subject on my mind - not sure why really but "free" is a concept we all seek, right? Not just as it pertains to bondage but also to our stuff :) Free items are good - the are gifts in a way. Everyone appreciates a free meal, free drink or buy one get one kind of offer! When something is free that means we don't have to give up our own resources to receive it.

Freedom - in our lives is also a good thing. Our country was founded on this principle. As humans, we don't like to be told what to do or how to do it. We don't like to feel chained down or held to certain guidelines. We want the liberty to live our lives our way without someone else dictating the way we do things or limit how much we can obtain, etc. Even as children we long for the day to be out from under parental rule. This quest for freedom must be some kind of inherent need.

Problem is, we rarely find true freedom. There are rules that all of us must follow - whether clearly defined or not. With relationships, there are unspoken expectations and simple etiquette. With society there are cultural norms and written laws.

And why? For our own good? For protection? Or maybe..... because they in turn, allow us to actually experience the freedom we so crave.

So many things hold us in bondage - past mistakes, bad habits, poor attitudes, unhealthy desires. These usually result from our inadequate search for freedom. Ironic to say the least. Learning to break free or let go of these is incredibly difficult. I've been told its possible so I choose to believe. However, I'm not there yet and I feel intense internal struggle in my efforts.

There is the saying, "Freedom isn't free". Something free means you don't have to give your own resources to obtain - its a gift, you simply accept. "Free" is for the recipient but not for the giver. Someone, somewhere always pays for the gift. For me to be free, someone paid a debt, someone died, someone took away my bondage penalty. My gratitude is indescribable - so why then is it at times so difficult to simply accept the freedom God gives? Do we not recognize the barriers we put up?

I think it may have to do with the nature of the gift. Some gifts are meant to stand the test of time while others are only for a season. While I'm thankful for every gift I receive, I'm learning to recognize those that are temporary and treasure those that are permanent. Holding on to things that are fleeting will keep me in a prison of sorts. True freedom lies in knowing what's truly valuable and cleaving to it. God only gives permanent, valuable gifts. I believe I've made the connection: My own will = bondage; God's will = freedom. The challenge is making my own will be the same as God's. The link is to fully grasp the concept of love and grace.

Romans 6:14 ~ Sin is no longer your master, for you no longer live under the requirements of the law. Instead, you live under the freedom of God’s grace.

Galatians 5:13 ~ For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.