Freedom

“Live as free people, yet without employing your freedom for a cover-up for wickedness, but live at all times as servants of God.” I Peter 2:16

Freedom often comes to mind with the connotation of being free TO do something. For anyone who has ever trained a dog, horse or even a child, you know that this type of freedom is based on trust and has to be earned. If one consistently does the right thing then one can be trusted with more freedom, i.e. be off the leash, a looser rein, or drive the car! Then, there is freedom FROM something, i.e. oppression and tyranny. This is the type that our patriot forefathers died to protect.

In the Declaration of Independence there is a list of 27 grievances against the King of England. Throwing off King George’s oppressions allowed for all men, being created equal, to live free FROM these abuses and TO chart their destiny. The authors of our new government well knew that our Republic would not work without God being it’s foundation. The famous poet Robert Frost depicts this concept so clearly, “You have freedom when you are easy in your harness.” And that harness guides a person to do what is right. Jesus spoke this truth in His Word — “My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” His harness is wholesome, useful, good, never harsh, sharp or oppressive. Liberty in Jesus is depicted as freedom FROM shame, guilt, condemnation, sin, fear, and bondage to the enemy. Jesus’ freedom cannot be earned, but is freely given by grace. His freedom gives us the liberty to choose what is right and good. Take the time to thank the Lord today for the freedom we have to serve Him without fear or persecution.

By Karen Thompson