Cords That Bind

“From my earliest youth my enemies have persecuted me . . . but they have never been able to finish me off. My back is covered with cuts, as if a farmer had plowed long furrows. But the LORD is good; he has cut the cords used by the ungodly to bind me.” Psalm 129:1-4 NLT

For years, the psalmist had faced a wide variety of enemies. And this strong opposition had left deep impressions. In fact, He was marked with the impact of painful experiences, “as if a farmer had plowed long furrows” on his back. The ungodly had bound him as they had wrapped him with unbreakable cords.

This persecution was real. Yet he had discovered the answer, and the right attitude. He learned that, regardless of what others said or did, he could trust in God. That He was “good.” Looking back, he could rejoice because God had set him free! The cords had been cut. The oppression had been lifted. The burdens had been taken away.

Today, think about the things that seem to bind you. Perhaps bad habits, financial needs, or troubled relationships. You might have scars from things that happened in your youth, or from some conflicts you faced.

But the Bible promises that God can set you free! Remember that Jesus came that you might be free (John 8:36). He died for your sins, so you do not need to be bound by sin or guilt. God has promised to provide for your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus, so you do not need to be bound by poverty. God has sent His Spirit that you might have the power to be victorious. God has made His wisdom available to you, so you do not have to be bound by doubt.

Do not allow anything to bind you, but trust in God. Declare His promises to be true in your life. Believe Him for freedom, peace, and joy.

Prayer: Father, these are problems that seem to bind me: ______. I commit them to You. Thank You for setting me free! In Jesus’ name. Amen.