Unburdened

Free will is such a tricky thing. We like having choices but at the same time, we really don't. Sometimes it's just easier to follow a set of rules because then we know in our heads that we're on track and that theorhetically we should get the outcome we desire. But unlike a quadratic equation or a science experiment, God can't be reduced to a formula or an if,then statement.

When Paul wrote his letter to the Colossians, he asked them why after having died with Christ, they were still submitting to the rules of the world in not handling, tasting, or touching things. He reminded them that these rules were based on human commands and teachings and had no value in restraining indulgence, despite their appearance of wisdom through false humility and harsh treatment of the body. My guesses: they liked rules the rules that made them feel like they were doing the right thing or they were trying to cover all their bases.

But here's the thing. If Christ came to set us free, and has made us free indeed, then our actions are going to sway towards pleasing Him, not ourselves. And if we believe that, we don't need to add extra just in case. It's why we must constantly stay connected to Him so that we can continue to grow in Him.

The great poet Toby Mac put it this way: I can hold your hand but I can't turn your eyes to freedom. Meaning, Jesus wants to lead us there, but because of free will, He isn't going to put His hands on our cheeks to turn our heads and hold our eyes open once He does. We have to make the choice.

Many of us, myself included, seem to forget the freedom we've been given. We get caught up in our own legalistic doctrine where we think that what we are doing is working to our advantage more than God is advancing His plans for us. That's just not true and it's not going to take us any place good.

Every day we have to make the decision to choose between life and death, blessings and curses. We don't have to live in fear because God is on our side and nothing is going to separate us from Him. Maybe it's time for us to accept that He has set us free so that we can leave our shackles behind on the prison floor and go home.