Forgiving Challenge: The 11-Day Life-Changing Journey to FreedomExemplo

Day 11: How Are We Sanctified into Complete Freedom?

In 1931, Lorenzo Buchanan told reporters that the $850 million estate of one of his ancestors was ready to be distributed among anyone who could prove to be related to Lorenzo Buchanan.

America went crazy. Everyone with the last name Buchanan went digging into their genealogy, trying to find a connection. Then, after Lorenzo and his lawyer proved the story was utterly fabricated, judges and economists said the estate didn't even exist. Experts at the Library of Congress said there were no ties to claim, but still, the mania continued. Library records from the 1960s, 30 years later, show congressmen were still asking for help in tracking down Buchanan claims sent in by constituents.

During the Great Depression, people were desperate for any sort of financial hope. When people are desperate for something, they will believe anything. Even if it's been proven wrong, people still hold out a glimmer of hope.

There is an invitation to you now that is better than an $850 million estate, and it's real. It's not a hoax. That invitation is that you belong to an inordinately wealthy family, and because of who you are, you get a part of that wealth. You get more than you could ever need or want. All you have to do is have a name. That family is our Christian family, and that wealthy person is your heavenly Father. The inheritance you have is heaven and eternal life.

Like Peter, God has named you His child. He has not only made Himself available to you to confess your Sin, paid the debt of sin (tetelestai!), and cleaned up your mess, but He has prepared a new life for you that begins immediately. It's an invitation to be sanctified. You are not only declared holy, but you begin to live out of that holiness. Peter went on to be the most mentioned disciple in the Bible, pastor of the first church, and a martyr for his faith. He indeed did receive freedom through God's forgiveness.

As you forgive a hurtful thing, extend a forgiving hand to someone, or let something go instead of seeking revenge, you are being sanctified. Those choices are no longer made in fear but response to love. Walking in holiness is less about perfection and more about participation.

What a difference between trying to get freedom by earning it or going at it alone. Freedom comes when we join with Jesus in bringing His kingdom to this Earth right now. Not because we have to, but because we get to.

True freedom gets experienced when we live out of the forgiveness that God has given to us.

Challenge: Step up into a life of forgiveness! The freedom you have been given is also a gift you can extend to others. So, as you have been forgiven, go now, and forgive someone else.

If you enjoyed this 11-day challenge, consider continuing the freedom journey by purchasing the bestselling 40-day Forgiving Challenge. At that link, you can not only buy the book but discover how your entire church can do this 40-day challenge together.