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“It is for freedom that Christ has set you free. Stand firm, then and do not let yourselves be [bound] again by a yoke of slavery.” Gal 5:1 (NIV)

Many years ago, an image flashed through my mind while I was praying. (The same way visions of chocolates and cheesecake come to mind when I am trying to fit into my skinny jeans.) The image of an Asian woman with “bound” feet appeared and quickly faded from my thoughts. I wondered who God wanted to reach through this experience. Just imagine the implications this could have on a woman bound by the burdens, distractions, and temptations of life. My curiosity ended when God whispered my name. Ouch! Was “I” really the intended target of this intervention? Was I really so bound by the distractions of the enemy and the affairs of life that I didn’t even realize I was NOT free? I was, after all, a godly woman who loved the Lord.

God’s answer was clear. As long as I sought meaning in my accomplishments, looked for worth in the approval of others, ran from my inadequacies, clung to old habits and hid behind a shield of self-preservation, then “I” was indeed in bondage. Sadly, my ability to experience the fullness of God’s plan for my life was being held hostage by my willingness to settle for something “less” than what God desired. Can you relate? Is your freedom being compromised by your willingness to settle for something “less” than what God desires for your life?

“Lord, forgive us for succumbing to the temptations of the flesh and the distractions of the enemy. Show us where we may be walking in bondage and set us free that we may experience the fullness of your plans and purposes for our lives.”

For His Glory

Claudia Dempsey
TRBC Women’s Life