You will know the truth, and the truth will make you free. John 8:32 WEB
This statement challenges our understanding of freedom. One of the appeals of freedom is the right to choose our own path in life. In this sense, God allows freedom for all. We each make our own choices and decisions. The question remains, who is truly free? Is it those who live in rebellion to God or those who live in obedience to his word and will?
Since the original sin in the Garden of Eden, man’s disobedience to the will of God results from the temptation to control their own destiny. Freedom to pursue worldly wisdom and pleasure appeals to human nature. However, sin does not set us free. As scripture says in John 8:34, “Jesus replied, “Very truly I tell you, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. NIV”
Consider the compulsions that arise from addictions to sex, alcohol, drugs or even pursuing wealth. These pursuits of pleasure corrupt thoughts, control actions, destroy peace, and enslave so many to sin. Beyond that, sinful lives separate the sinner from God.
Obedience to God
With his words, “the truth will make you free,” Jesus undoubtedly means that the truth sets the believer free from the condemnation, control, and guilt of sin. What then is the truth? The truth is Jesus Christ and his gospel message of salvation through repentance from sin. As Christ says in Luke 5:32, “I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. WEB”
Although counterintuitive to most people at first, true freedom only comes from living in obedience to God. Set free through faith in Christ, we live free of guilt, free of shame, free from the controlling compulsion of sin.
Prayer: “Father God, thank you for the truth. Thank you for setting me free through faith and by your grace. Lead me away from temptation and toward a life that is both best for me and pleasing to you. In Jesus’ name – Amen”
Yesterday’s Devotional: Lead Me to the Rock
