Freedoms around the world vary. Consider what freedoms we have. Are we free to decide what to eat, what to wear, what work to do, where to go, how and with whom to spend your time? How about the bigger freedoms like freedom of speech and freedom of religion?

With freedom comes responsibility and consequences.

In the beginning, God gave Adam and Eve great freedom. Genesis 2:16-17 records God’s command, “You are free to eat from any tree in the garden …” except one. God explained that if they chose to disobey, the consequence would be death—separation from God.

We know how that turned out! And don’t blame Adam and Eve. We all continue to step beyond and outside of God’s limits.

Thank God that belief in Jesus frees us from the power of sin and the eternal consequences of hell. Jesus, though innocent, took on the punishment for the sin of everyone and broke the chains of sin that threaten to control us.

The Apostle Paul wrote, “So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death (Romans 8:1-2 NLT).

Freedom back into an intimate relationship with the Father begins by believing Jesus is God’s Son. Jesus is the key who sets us free. “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed” (John 8:36 NIV).

May you experience the Spirit-filled life of freedom in Christ today.