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“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36 (ESV)

Setting something free should be easy – right?  I tried several times to release this tiny bug out my car window. Every time I lowered the glass, the bug clung to the edge and slid down with the window.  Raising it back up, I thought he was free but then he reappeared.  After several attempts, I almost gave up but the last roll down, I helped push him up over the edge.  Free falling into fresh air – finally set free.

Ever find ourselves desiring freedom yet clinging to what is holding us back?  The elusive edge of moving from captive to free appears scary when being free seems impossible from our vantage point.  In those moments, we need help getting over the edge.  But instead of welcoming help and admitting our vulnerabilities, we stay on the up and down spiral convinced freedom isn’t ours for the taking.

Sweet friends this is the beautiful place where we release guilt and shame. This is the place where we reach out to trusted others who can strengthen our pursuit of free.  This is the place where we admit what is holding us back and choose to courageously take steps to release the chains.

Nothing more precious than the release of chained finally being set free.   This is the place where we as trusted others must release judgment for the sake of helping one over the edge and set free. It’s where we realize the battle is bigger than us both and we build hedges of prayer.  It’s when we step down off our own pedestal and recognize we all fall short of God’s glory.

Dear captive one don’t miss the grace and mercy God offers to those who run to Him.  Despite our history of past mistakes and clanging chains, we can be free.

Dear trusted others don’t miss the opportunity to witness God’s redemption and restoration.  Regardless of where someone has been, they can be set free.

“Father, help us identify any areas in our lives where we are held captive and do the hard work of release to embrace Your freedom.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life