Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light (Matt. 11:29-30).” People love to talk about being free. Some think freedom is doing whatever you want. Songs about freedom abound on our playlists. America finds pride every 4th of July in celebrating its independence. Do self-determination and independence make us free? Can you live a life of freedom through your o

For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father (Ro. 8:14-15)!” We live in a society that judges you by and large on how you perform. Job evaluations, report cards, and college entrance exams all require a passing score for acceptance. We tend to grade ourselves as well as others according to our standards of appro

Having begun your new life by faith with the Spirit, are you now being perfected and reaching spiritual maturity by the flesh that is, by your own works and efforts to keep the Law (Gal. 3:3)? Most folks love steak, and Outback Restaurant is a place you can enjoy one. Its motto is “No Rules Just Right.” That slogan challenges convention and sound irreverent, doesn’t it? But is there a way you can see it through another lens, the eye of light instead of darkness. The good ne

He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness by his wounds you have been healed. For you were straying like sheep, but have now returned to the Shepherd and Overseer of your souls (1 Peter 2:24-25). When people you trust sin against you, the pain you experience may continue long after the transgression. Sin can shatter your heart into separate pieces where the darkness of fear and bitterness reside. Do not see yourself