When we were children, we enjoyed life so much more when we were given a little freedom. We could go outside, as long as we did not venture too far. As we got older, we enjoyed having the freedom to use the family car, and we could do that without any supervision. Then, as we graduated from high school, we had the freedom to leave the family nest and go to college or start a career.
With all these freedoms, came a sense of responsibility. We could not just go out and do whatever we pleased. “A man’s worst difficulties begins when he is able to do as he likes” (Aldous Huxley). Trouble begins when the reins are loosened and we can run wild. As we do as we please, that is when the bottom falls out of our life. An unknown writer says it this way, “freedom is not the right to do as a person pleases, but the liberty to do as he ought.”
The Bible teaches that we are not to live by a list of dos and don’ts. Jesus Christ set us free from having to follow a rigid set of rules and regulations. ‘For you were called to freedom, brethren, only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another” (Galatians 5:13). Notice, the verse says that “we were called to freedom.” We are no longer shackled by the law.
Freedom costs. Last week, as we celebrated Independence Day, know that we are free from the bondage of England. We are no longer bound to obey the English Parliament or its laws. So, whenever we celebrate July 4th, just know that we can do so, because someone paid a high cost of their lives for us.
May you practice the freedom that your have in Christ, because you are free indeed!
