Longing for Freedom - Martin Wiles

For he has rescued us from the kingdom of darkness and transferred us into the Kingdom of his dear Son, who purchased our freedom and forgave our sins. Colossians 1:13-14 NLT

He was longing for freedom.

The letter said he was in prison, but for what I didn’t know. The return address was unfamiliar. As the contents fell out and I read, Jason* told his story. He had read one of my devotions in a publication distributed at the prison. His life had been a wreck. He was there because of bad decisions—which ones didn’t matter.

Jason needed someone to listen and encourage him. While there, he had chosen to surrender his life to Christ, but the darkness surrounding him depressed him. He tried to be a light but wondered whether he was making any progress.

Over the next year, we corresponded monthly. He told me about the dreams he wanted to fulfill when his prison stint ended. Then the letters stopped. Recently, I received another letter. He was out and working—but still struggling to find his way in a cruel world.

Millions celebrate Independence Day in America. Even more have given their lives for the freedom Americans enjoy. From the War of Independence through the many that have followed, Americans have fought for their freedom and that of others.

True freedom, however, can be enjoyed anywhere—when behind bars or subject to cruel rulers. Christ made this freedom possible when he died on the cross and paid for the sins of humanity.

Bars may hinder us from doing what we want—as they did Jason—but our spirits are free. Oppressors may forbid us from worshiping Christ publicly, but they can never imprison our souls. What has been set free by Christ is free forever. Jason and many others have discovered this while in prison. Christians living under oppressive governments have as well.

When we ask, Christ forgives our sins and casts them as far as the East is from the West. He no longer requires that we pay for them. Anyone who asks can be free.

Are you enjoying the true meaning of freedom?

Prayer: Father, thank You for the freedom found through forgiveness. 

Tweetable: Have you found the true meaning of freedom? 

Thanks to all our faithful followers who share our posts! We also invite you to follow and like us on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and Instagram. Help us spread God's encouragement through His Love Lines.