Bound By Freedom预览

Be Not Entangled

When we see Jesus for who He is, we see that He is better than sin and “secondary pleasures.” Sometimes it is best to abstain from permissible things that are not profitable; perhaps not for the moment, not for a season, and sometimes not ever. It is one thing to trust Jesus for salvation; it is another to obey Him and steer clear of sin. His dream for us is a full and satisfying life in which He is our portion and prize; finding this depth of joy in Him liberates us to pursue Him whole-heartedly, which is the inheritance He deserves. 

Obedience is the holy slavery binding us to our Maker and preserving us from slavery to sin; living in the light of His countenance saves us from both defiling stains and settling for satisfaction in secondary pleasures—legitimate as they may be (relationships, work, adventure, art)—and ushers us into the full life ordained for us in Jesus. This also brings Him tremendous pleasure. 

Prayer

Father, preserve me from weeds that entangle and choke out Your word from the soil of my heart. Help me walk in the light of Your countenance; thank You that obedience gives me access to deep pleasure and full delight in You—and that You take so much joy in my joy. Bring me into the fullness of Your joy. You are my exceedingly great reward.