Freedom 
By Mike Rule

If it is for freedom that Christ has set us free (Galatians 5), then why are we so afraid to be free? Bondage is often rooted in unbelief and a lack of trust. I have found that we are not convinced that God can or will keep us. We think we must know the scriptures, and have correct knowledge, understanding, doctrine, and beliefs in order to be kept. This is often based in self-effort and what I am doing to maintain my relationship with God. Does God really depend upon me to help Him keep me?

We are called to do everything we do for the glory of God, but the problem is we think God’s glory is dependent upon our efforts. Therefore we strive hard to be a good Christian, have a good witness, give a good testimony, and live a life that is above reproach. However, none of that effort is directed toward God, and as a result I get the glory for succeeding in all these things. We have just violated the very thing we were setting out to attain – doing all for the Glory of God. Doing all for the Glory of God is much simpler than that. It is simply resting in Him and responding to His voice, while letting Him worry about the results. He has called us to LIVE! He wants us to enjoy LIFE! He did not create us to be only a solemn and studious people. He has called us to be free so we can live life to the fullest while following where He leads no matter how little sense that makes at times. Will you follow where He leads, letting go of the former things and pressing on toward the goal? He who has called you is faithful! Will you trust Him? Trusting Him is freedom!