Freedom isn’t free. We know this. Warriors die fighting for freedom. Some are wounded physically, mentally and emotionally. Families may receive their loved ones back forever changed. Families are forever changed.

 

My freedom in Christ wasn't free either. It was paid for by the precious blood of my Lord, Jesus Christ.  Jesus suffered and died for sins once for all--the innocent for the guilty-- to bring us near to God by His body being put to death and by being raised to life by the Spirit. 1Peter 3:18  The Passion Translation (TPT)

 

I love my freedom in America. And I love my freedom in Christ. What about you?

When I think of freedom, this verse  comes to mind.  "So if the Son sets you free from sin, then become a true son and be unquestionably free!" John 8:36 TPT

How do we become unquestionably free?
One answer is in Romans. Paul talks about our reasonable service. "Stop imitating the ideals and opinions of the culture around you, but be inwardly transformed by the Holy Spirit through a total reformation of how you think. This will empower you to discern God’s will as you live a beautiful life, satisfying and perfect in his eyes." Romans 12:2 TPT 

 

How do we give our reasonable service?   
1 Peter gives us a great explanation.  But first, let's recall a little of Peter's story.  Remember, after Jesus was arrested, it was Peter who denied he was a follower of Jesus or even  knew him. The night before Jesus spoke a prophesy to Peter.  Those words are so important for us to hear. Because like Peter, after we fail, we can turn back and be restored and live our life mission, just as Peter did.

Jesus said, “Peter, my dear friend, listen to what I’m about to tell you. Satan has obtained permission to come and sift you all like wheat and test your faith. But I have prayed for you, Peter, that you would stay faithful to me no matter what comes. Remember this: after you have turned back to me and have been restored, make it your life mission to strengthen the faith of your brothers.” Luke 22: 31-32 TPT

 

Like Peter, we are called to be faithfull. None of us are perfect. Peter failed. But he turned back to the Lord and was restored. And by God's grace Peter overcame his struggle, and found his life's mission. Peter was called to strengthen the faith in others. And his letters show us how to perservere, be empowered to overcome, and remain faithful in our struggles.  

Have you failed, turned back and been restored in your own life? Has overcoming your struggle become your life mission or message? What freedom have you found in your life through Christ, that became hope to another person?

 

Live in freedom, but not as a cover up for evil.
Peter's words reflect God's truth for your life and mine when he shares that "as God’s loving servants, you should live in complete freedom, but never use your freedom as a cover up for evil." 1 Peter 2: 6 TPT

 

That verse causes me to pause and think about my life. Do I use freedom to cover up evil in my life?
And if so, how? I start by asking the Holy Spirit to reveal my heart attitudes, words and actions that are not aligned with God's heart and call for my life. Recognizing and accepting the things that need to be changed are some of the first steps necessary to change.

An answer
Peter appeals to us to separate ourselves from evil. Sometimes that can be hard in the culture we live in, especially when we are falsely accused. I often hear unbelievers accuse Christians of evil intent. Christians may be viewed as evil people. Even if there was no evil intent, but simply a stand for Godly values.  This is one-way Christians experience trials, suffering and even persecution today.

We live in a world that is out of alignment with God and our Christian values. In response, Peter asks we live honorable lives, and honor the Lord by respecting authority, to being holy, and faithful in trials and persecution. Peter also tells us "it is God’s will for you to silence the ignorance of foolish people by doing what is right." 1 Peter 2:15 TPT

 

As Christians, we have the freedom to do what is right, even when others do not. And Peter reveals why we are called to do what is right, despite others around us doing wrong. That is because unbelievers will see your beautiful works and have a reason to glorify God. 1 Peter 2:12 TPT  We see this same truth and calling in the Book of Matthew. 

 

"Don’t hide your light! 

Let it shine brightly before others,

so that your good works 

will shine as light upon them, 

and then they will give their praise 

to your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:16 TPT

 
So, what is our response, as Christians to freedom?
The Bible tells us to use our freedom to 

 

Let's be strong in the Lord and live our life purpose.
Blessings!
Kathleen