True freedom is found in Christ.
Story summary
In this devotional, Red and Bart find themselves in America in 1776, and learn that freedom is more than just doing whatever we want. True freedom is found in Christ. It is freedom from sin, selfishness, and the broken desires that pull us away from God.
1 Corinthians 10:23
“All things are lawful,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful,” but not all things build up.
What Did We Learn?
- We learned that freedom is more than just doing whatever we want whenever we want.
- Real freedom is not found in getting our own way, but in being shaped by what is good, true, and right.
- We saw that a nation can be excited about liberty and independence, but there is a deeper freedom that every heart needs. A freedom that law alone cannot give and government cannot secure.
- The freedom from sin, selfishness, and the broken desires that pull us away from God.
- And we learned that true liberty is not the absence of authority, but the right ordering of our lives under God’s loving rule. As John Witherspoon reminded us, outward freedom means very little if the heart is still in bondage.
- But the greatest truth of all is this: Jesus Christ is the One who gives real freedom. Not just freedom from tyranny, but freedom from sin itself. He changes the heart so that we are not only free to choose what is right but begin to love what is right.
- So as we celebrate freedom, we remember the greatest freedom of all is found in Christ.
Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of freedom and for the reminder that true freedom comes from You alone.
Thank You for sending Jesus, who sets us free from sin and gives us new hearts that want to follow You.
Help us to live not for ourselves, but in the joy of walking in Your ways.
As we enjoy the blessings of this country, keep us mindful of Your mercy and Your truth.
In Jesus’ Name we pray,
Amen.
Thank You for the gift of freedom and for the reminder that true freedom comes from You alone.
Thank You for sending Jesus, who sets us free from sin and gives us new hearts that want to follow You.
Help us to live not for ourselves, but in the joy of walking in Your ways.
As we enjoy the blessings of this country, keep us mindful of Your mercy and Your truth.
In Jesus’ Name we pray,
Amen.
Discussion Questions
- What freedoms are you grateful for?
How is the freedom that Jesus gives better?