Free Indeed

What does it mean to be free? To English Puritans in the 17th century, freedom meant serving God without interference. To Africans sold into slavery, freedom meant being released from bondage.

To 18th-century American colonies, freedom meant charting their own course. Colonial leader Patrick Henry, whose father came to America from Scotland, believed that freedom was based on a commitment to Christianity. To him, freedom was possible only when based “on the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

Yet for many people, freedom simply means license. John Stuart Mill expressed this perspective, saying, “the only freedom which deserves the name is that of pursing our own good in our own way.” Is he right? What, in fact, is freedom?

The Bible says that we can experience ultimate freedom because Jesus died for us on the cross. Only if we surrender our lives to Him can we truly be “free indeed.”

The Gospel promises us real freedom: freedom from fear and worry, burdens and anxiety. We never can find this freedom in a relationship, by making more money, or acquiring more things. Real freedom comes only when you no longer are a slave of sin and when you trust in Jesus.

Don’t let sin keep you a prisoner. If you have confessed your sins and trusted in Him, you are free from sin. Rejoice! Let God take away your worries and burdens! You are free indeed!