How Do I Find Freedom In The Cross?
Jesus came to earth not to condemn the world, but to save us. He came to set us free. But free from what? There are many things in this world that can hold us captive, and often, we don’t even realize it’s happening. We just accept it as part of our everyday life. These are things that ultimately hold us back from finding joy. Unsatisfying careers, regrets, temptations, sin, depression, bad relationships, greed, money, comparison, jealousy, envy. The list can be overwhelming, and the cycle can feel even more difficult to escape from when we continue to focus on those worldly idols and distractions instead of casting our eyes, and our hearts, to what will set us free.
Jesus granting us freedom didn’t have anything to do with allowing us to do whatever we want, whenever we want, with whomever we want. Instead, He was liberating us to boldly walk in faith; to have a relationship with God and pick up our cross and follow Jesus daily. “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” 1 Galatians 5:1 Finding freedom in Christ means being set free from sin, and from the burdens of this world. However it does not ensure that you’ll live a life without difficulties, pain or sadness. It is impossible to avoid real life situations, both big and small. But it does mean that your journey will be lighter. That even on the dark days, you have a refuge, and hope. His power is there to uphold us and bring us through the storm. There is comfort in knowing that you were made for so much more; that you are not defined by your history, your past sin, or your circumstances. True freedom in Christ labels us as Children of God, and by grace upon grace we have been given another chance because of a love much greater than we could ever comprehend.
The first step in finding true freedom in Christ and removing yourself from the bondage of sin is to repent. Accepting Jesus as your Lord and Savior, and asking forgiveness for the sins in your past. As Christians, we can’t think we will never sin again. That’s not realistic. We are still human and we still get caught up in things we shouldn’t. We backslide, and we make mistakes. But true freedom lies in having a relationship with God, keeping your heart clean before Him and striving to live your life in the way He desires. It means making a daily choice to put temptation behind you and not enter situations that can cause you to sin.
It also means offering forgiveness for those who have wronged you. This isn’t always easy to do, but it’s necessary. Not only because it’s right, but it helps in your healing, and in finding peace. Get into the habit of putting God first, in everything you do. This includes making time for reading your Bible and establishing prayer routines throughout your day, but it also boils down to how we carry ourselves, and how we choose to treat others and act on a daily basis. When we put God first, we are allowing His works to shine through us in every possible situation. “But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.
I want to encourage you today, to step out in faith. Do not be yoked again to the bondage that was holding you back from all that God wants for you. Jesus died to set you free. Cry out to the Father and ask Him to help you walk in the light and to release you from all temptations and struggle. Ask Him to help you forgive those who may have hurt you or caused you harm. He will carry you through to truly be free.
Until Next time Remember,
Stay Calm and Be Empowered.
