Real Freedom

It was to be “the war to end all wars.” But, as World War I dragged on, neither side could break the stalemate. And as the death toll climbed higher, discontent grew, and some called for radical solutions. Some on both sides even were encouraged by the Bolshevik Revolution of 1917, which brought communists to power in Russia.

Gradually, however, many became disillusioned with the Bolsheviks. One was Rosa Luxemburg, a German socialist who had been imprisoned for her opposition to the war. In particular, she was disturbed by the “rule by terror” that had become the norm.

She described how, in Russia, “freedom” was only “for the supporters of the government.” Recognizing that this was no freedom at all, she concluded: “Freedom is always for the one who thinks differently.” But Lenin, who led the Russian revolution, had a different view, saying, “In a state worthy of the name, there is no liberty.”

Then and now, people have diverse ideas of what true freedom is. For many, like Lenin, freedom simply means “agreeing with me”—or else!

However, the Bible provides a perspective that may seem surprising: Real freedom cannot be produced by a revolution or political action. Real freedom comes when we surrender our lives to Jesus and make Him our Lord.

When we entrust our lives to Jesus, He miraculously frees us from burdens and guilt, worry and doubt. We realize that our lives have a greater purpose—not to indulge in personal pleasures, but to serve the Lord and impact people for the Gospel.

Today, are you carrying burdens? Do you feel the weight of sin? Surrender your life anew to Jesus. He promised, “Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Let Jesus set you free!