Freedom in Christ

                    A little food for July 4th Weekend Thought--
     In thinking about the remarkable gift of freedom that we enjoy--both corporately as a nation and individually as believers in Christ--I found these words by A.W. Tozer both challenging and convicting:
     "Every man in a free society must decide whether he will exploit his liberty or curtail it for moral and intelligent ends.  He may take upon him the responsibility of business and a family, or he may shun all obligations and end on skid row.  The tramp is freer than the president or king, but his freedom is undoing.  While he lives he remains socially sterile, and when he dies he leaves nothing to make the world glad he lived.
     The Christian cannot escape the peril of too much liberty.  He is indeed free, but his very freedom may prove a source of real temptation to him.  He is free from the chains of sin, free from the moral consequences of evil acts now forgiven, free from the curse of the law and the displeasure of God.
     The ideal Christian is one who knows he is free to do as he will--and wills to be a servant!  This is the path Christ took: Blessed is the man who follows Him!"
      Boy, how counter-cultural is that?!  Freedom means knowing we are free to do whatever we desire...and we desire to follow our Savior in being a servant.  We are freed from the curse and penalty of sin...and while we could potentially (and wrongly!) misuse that freedom to indulge in sin, we choose to use that freedom in the pursuit of righteousness and holy living.
      "Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is the slave of sin.  The slave does not remain in the house forever; the son does remain forever.  So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed." (John 8:34-36)
     That is perfect freedom!
     Thank You for giving us true and everlasting freedom, Lord Jesus.  Forgive us when we (or at least I) take that unfathomable gift lightly.  Might we use our freedom to follow You in loving servanthood and in living to Your glory every single day You choose to give us on this planet.
     To God be the glory.