A Lifestyle by Rhovonda L. Brown
So if the Son liberates you [makes you free men], then you are really and unquestionably free. (John 8:36, AMP)
Those who follow me on social media and who are on our mailing list know that Martha & Mary Ministries, Walking in Freedom’s theme is “walking in freedom”. In fact, the title of my first book uses that same theme. Walking in freedom is not mere words I randomly used to encourage you. Not only is it the heart of our ministry, but these three words are brought forth from our decision to follow Christ. Freedom, according to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, is the quality or state of being free. The absence of necessity, coercion, or constraint in choice or action. It’s the liberation from slavery or restraint or from the power of another (merriam-webster.com). Jesus Christ gave us freedom from sin and from Satan’s captivity. His work at the cross (death, burial and resurrection) liberated us from the enslavement we once had from the curse of sin.
Jesus has made us free. Our sinful nature can no longer control us, dominate us, and influence us because of the blood that He shed for us on Calvary. His victory at the cross released us from the restraint that sin had over us. Our emotions, actions, behaviors, and lifestyles are not motivated by the power of sin. Not anymore! Inasmuch as we are children of God, we walk in freedom surrendering to the will of God and the authority of the Holy Spirit (Rom. 8:1-9). Because Christ conquered sin, death, and the grave, we are more than conquerors through Him who loves us (Rom. 8:11-38).
Now, does our freedom mean we won’t make mistakes? Does it mean we won’t stumble? Of course not! We live in a world that’s deteriorating daily, living amongst wicked and corruptible people (1 Cor. 7:31). Be that as it may, we are in the world not of the world (John 15:19, 17:13-16). We are victorious over this world (1 John 5:4-5). The difference between believers and non-believers is that we have been forgiven. When we sin, we can ask for forgiveness, and our faithful Father will forgive us immediately (1 John 1:9). He won’t condemn us, but have mercy on us and wipe the slate clean. Wow!
My sister, walking in freedom is not a movement, but a way of life. It’s a life that trusts Jesus and is led by the Holy Spirit. It is someone who doesn’t allow difficulties of this life to turn her away from God, but keeps her eyes on the Master. Even if she stumbles or gets off track, God has given her the ability to refocus her attention back to Him.
It’s Wednesday – Hump Day! Here’s a biblical principle to keep us focused and get us over the hump.
In [this] freedom Christ has made us free [and completely liberated us]; stand fast then, and do not be hampered and held ensnared and submit again to a yoke of slavery [which you have once put off]. (Gal. 5:1, AMP)
Jesus Christ’s unfailing love has rescued and delivered us from the oppression and power of sin. We are no longer under the law of sin that imprisoned us and condemned us, but by grace through faith we have been saved (Eph. 2:8). At this very moment and forevermore, Christ’s Spirit lives inside of us, and His Spirit gives us liberty (2 Cor. 3:17).
So now, my sister, without any shame, doubt, or fear, let us walk in our freedom.
ENCOURAGING YOU TO WALK IN FREEDOM!
My devotional debut book has 30 devotionals to inspire you to keep walking in freedom with Jesus Christ. Take a peek inside!
(*Originally posted 8/6/2014)
Rhovonda L. Brown is speaker and author of two bestsellers, Walking in Freedom!: A Thirty-Day Devotional Journey for Women and At Least Say, “Thank You!”: An 8-Day Devotional Plan for a Grateful Heart.
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