True Freedom
On July 2nd, 1776, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later the Declaration of Independence was adopted. July 4th is recognized as the birth of American independence and it's celebrated with festivities and grand firework displays. We are so blessed to have the privilege of worshiping God in this nation without fear of punishment. The price that was paid for that freedom was quite costly and precious. The shed blood and lives sacrificed should never be forgotten or taken for granted.
As Christians we should also celebrate our independence from the control of the demonic forces that once ruled us and destined us for eternal damnation. We have a written document that states our freedom which was paid for by the sacrifice of Christ's shed blood. The only difference is that He's seldom celebrated and sadly many choose to remain shackled to controlling spirits of sin. Though they may think that "doing their own thing" is a privilege they have chosen to experience, it's actually a trap that leads to depression, anxiety and ultimately destruction. True freedom comes as we step into the life God specifically designed for us. Walking and talking with Him throughout our day without the barriers of sin shaming us into guilt and condemnation. There's freedom when we are no longer controlled by our emotions or the lusts of the flesh but we allow the Holy Spirit to have control. We find our strength as we repent, fall at the feet of Jesus and admit we need a Savior. There's nothing like living a life knowing that we are cared for and there's no sacrifice too great for our God to make on our behalf. He loves you... enough to sacrifice His only Son to have a relationship with you! That should be celebrated with exuberant praise and worship! Never forget or take for granted the sacrifice made for your soul.
Jeremiah 31:3 (KJV) The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving kindness have I drawn thee.
Psalm 145:6-8 (NKJV) Men shall speak of the might of Your awesome acts, and I will declare Your greatness. They shall utter the memory of Your great goodness, and shall sing of Your righteousness.
Psalm 77:11-14 (NKJV) I will remember the works of the Lord; Surely I will remember Your wonders of old. I will also meditate on all Your work, And talk of Your deeds. Your way, O God, is in the sanctuary; Who is so great a God as our God? You are the God who does wonders; You have declared Your strength among the peoples.
Romans 8:1-6 (NLT) So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death.The law of Moses was unable to save us because of the weakness of our sinful nature.So God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body God declared an end to sin’s control over us by giving his Son as a sacrifice for our sins. He did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for us, who no longer follow our sinful nature but instead follow the Spirit.Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit. So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.
