Are We Celebrating God’s Planned and True “Freedom?”

“The person God sets free is free indeed.” John 8:34-38

Jesus said, “I tell you most solemnly that anyone who chooses a life of sin is trapped in a dead-end life and is, in fact, a slave. A slave can’t come and go at will. The Son, though, has an established position, the run of the house. So if the Son sets you free, you are free through and through. (The Message) You are slaves of sin, every one of you. And slaves don’t have rights, but the Son has every right there is! So if the Son sets you free, you will indeed be free.” TLB

Many of us made plans for, hosted, or attended barbecues, gatherings, parades, and fireworks celebrations! While we definitely have reason to celebrate, is that reason the greatest one? Before we forget about those enjoyable times (moving on to the next gathering, let’s pause, reflect, and consider the best, highest, truest freedom as defined by the One — the One who gives us true liberty!

Freedom is the heart cry of billions around the world! For many the word “freedom” means personal liberty…to-say-be what “i” want. However, the kind of freedom Jesus offers is so, so, so much more. The God-kind-of-freedom is beautifully different!

HIS freedom cost the precious, innocent holy blood and life of HIS only Son Jesus Christ so that all people would have the ability to live as the uniquely created person God wants and intends for us to be.

✝️ 1 Peter 2:16 – Live as free people
Live as truly free people, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as God planned. Use your freedom for helping; for the good of others because it is a gift from God. It’s an opportunity to live in specific and special ways that honors Him while uplifting, respecting, and loving like God. This creates a complete, beautiful combination/balance of faith and freedom.

✝️ John 8:32 – The truth will set you free
And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.
GOD’s truth is the ONLY thing that leads to our freedom. Think of those in our history who were stripped of physical freedom, yet they had greater spiritual freedom to share their faith and treat others with godly love and unconditional forgiveness.

✝️ Psalm 118:5 – The Lord answered and set me free
Out of my distress, I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me free.

What a wonderful reminder that GOD’s freedom is our anchor in our toughest moments. We can trust that no matter what struggles we have or will have, His strength is there to lift, comfort, and encourage us.

✝️ 1 Corinthians 10:23 – Do all to the glory of God
“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.
Sometimes, people have the freedom to do, say, think certain things; however, these are not helpful and the results are not beneficial to anyone.

NOW, this sounds like an exciting and much-needed celebration for us all! FIREWORKS for sure!

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©2024 Penelope White Use with author’s permission. Send requests to penywhite@hotmail.com

Penelope Allen White is a wife, mother of two young adult sons, and grandmother. Her passion is for all children and people to have an intimate knowledge of God. She works as a Christian educator, speaker, church school curriculum writer and teacher, workshop facilitator, middle school counselor, and neighborhood tutor. Despite her busy schedule, she still finds time to enjoy a game of hopscotch!