Freedom is good for our souls. We like to decide for ourselves what we do and don’t do. But Jesus points out that by nature we are not as free as we think we are….
“Everyone who sins is a slave to sin.” (John 8:34 NIV)
At first this may sound strange. But if we look at ourselves honestly, Jesus is actually right. We are deeply addicted to immoral and excessive living; we are hostile, jealous, and selfish. Even when we try to improve our lives, we succeed only to a very limited extent. We are subject to the powers and pressures of this world. We truly are “slaves to sin.”
The good news is that Jesus came to set us free and to heal us. He has disarmed the evil powers so that they can no longer control our lives. He teaches us to recognize the truth so that we are no longer spiritually blind. He sets us free from the laws and rules of this world and teaches us to live in the light.
“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36 NIV)
What do you feel trapped by? What desire or pressure lies behind that?