A personal freedom

Throughout the ages, people have always struggled for personal freedom. However, it is sad to see how few people have heard of, let alone strived for an even deeper and greater freedom: The freedom within; that which Jesus calls being free indeed.

Am I really free?

If we are honest with ourselves, we have to admit that, as much as we wish to be good and strong and happy, we as human beings are far from perfect.

Personally, I remember trying to give someone a patient smile even when I was irritated. Instead words of anger came out of my mouth. At other times I just couldn’t forgive someone who had hurt me, even though I actually wanted to recover the relationship we have had.

The Bible says, “Do all things without complaining,” (Philippians 2:14) but we find it is almost impossible not to have negative thoughts when things are not going well. When we try to do what Paul said: “Be anxious for nothing,” (Philippians 4:6) we quickly find our limitations.

What use is it to have all freedom to speak and to act in society, when we are completely bound inside when it comes to doing the good?

No freedom without a struggle

It is sin that binds us. (Romans 6:16) No freedom can be won without a struggle. Maybe not so many know that Jesus was the first to fight this battle. Jesus was born with the same nature as all mankind, so that He also was tempted like everyone else. He was the first human being to fight against the lusts in His flesh, that same tendency to sin.

“Where do wars and fights come from among you? Do they not come from your desires for pleasure that war in your members?” James 4:1. Jesus also experienced these tendencies in His own human nature, but instead of giving in, He humbled Himself and prayed fervently to God for everything He needed. With God’s power, He entered into this battle against His own flesh in everyday life. He overcame everything that would hinder Him from doing the good.

Jesus, with the same nature as ours, became the Prince of Peace. He gained freedom from sin at the expense of His own will. He received divine nature and opened the way to an eternal life with God! (Romans 6:22-23)

Free indeed

Are you willing to give your life for such freedom? Are you brave enough to follow Jesus, to deny yourself in temptation, in order to do God’s will? Through faith and obedience, you will win the freedom to love and to be only good, to live a righteous life and be a blessing to those around you. “Jesus answered them, ‘Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever. Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.’” John 8:34-36.

Then the Prince of Peace Himself will grant you the ultimate prize: eternal life.