Unmasking False Freedom, Living Set Free
Harriet Tubman is quoted for having said: "I freed a thousand slaves. I could have freed a thousand more if only they knew they were slaves." How often do we, like those slaves, fail to recognize our own bondage?
In our pursuit of freedom, we often overlook the subtle ways in which we become enslaved to something else entirely. Galatians 5:1 warns us: "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery."
In a world that often equates freedom with the absence of rules or constraints, the concept of true freedom can sometimes be distorted. We see it portrayed as the ability to do whatever we want, whenever we want, and without consequence. We prioritize our own desires and impulses, regardless of how it may impact the world around us.
The reality is, this distorted view of freedom blinds us to the chains that bind us. We may believe ourselves to be free, yet we’re still enslaved to addiction, materialism, shame, self-doubt, or fear.
But there is hope in that Christ has already set us free. In the depths of our bondage and darkness, Jesus intervened with unparalleled grace and love, offering Himself as the ultimate sacrifice. He paved the way where there seemed to be none, ushering us into the light of His salvation. “For at one time, you were in darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light” (Ephesians 5:8). It's a profound shift from slavery to freedom, from despair to hope, made possible only through the redemptive life of Jesus Christ.
Jesus did what we could never do. And so our efforts to try to free ourselves are pointless and another way that we’re still held captive.
True freedom is not found in fighting to free ourselves and it’s not found in a life without limits. Where else can we find it, but in surrendering ourselves to the transformative power of God's love and grace, by whom we now get to choose life and life abundantly.
But here's the kicker: this freedom isn't just about us. It's about how we interact with the world around us. It's about loving others fiercely, forgiving freely, and serving selflessly. It's about making a difference not out of obligation, but out of a genuine desire to spread the love and freedom we’ve received.
And while this freedom might sound all rainbows and butterflies, it's not always easy. We still mess up, we still stumble, and we still face challenges. But even in those moments, we can find comfort in knowing that it was never dependent on our own efforts.
Let us cast off the shackles of false freedom and embrace the liberating truth of our identity as beloved children of God. Let's live lives marked by love, kindness, and generosity. Let's be bold in our faith, knowing that we're walking in the footsteps of the One who set us free. Because in Christ, we're not just free – we're liberated to live lives that point others to him so they can live in freedom too.
Action Steps
Take time to reflect on areas of your life where you may still be in bondage. Surrender that to the Lord and ask for strength to recognize and confront those patterns in your life.
Seek accountability and support from trusted friends or mentors as you navigate the journey towards true freedom in Christ. A small group in church is a great place to plug in!
Identify practical ways to live out your faith in love and service to others. Consider volunteering, participating in a community outreach program, or simply reaching out to someone in need.
Further Reading for Encouragement
Colossians 1:13-14
Romans 6-8
2 Corinthians 3-4:6
Ephesians 4:17-5:21