Set Free By Christ

 It's so reassuring to read Galatians 5:1 (ESV).

"For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery."

I comforted myself with this verse, yet again after someone asked again about a certain situation I had been in years ago that was one of spiritual abuse.  A situation that perpetuated being controlled by people and many unwritten rules rather than by the Holy Spirit and God's Word.

When asked about why not 'come back' which they were essentially asking, I said, "Oh, I'm so free right now!"  They were shocked.

Their way is "the only true way." Or so they imply.  I feel sorry for them.  Others reading this may have been trapped in similar spiritual bondage in a church setting.  Control maintained by adhering only to specific church brethren writings as commentary and deemed almost on par with God's Word, although it more than likely wouldn't be admitted to.  It is entrapment.

No doubt those commentaries are helps but when maintained and insinuated as "the only way - the one place" and not allowing the Holy Spirit to teach more freely, therein is the spiritual bondage I mean.  Many may not realize the cage they are in but once broken free, one is free indeed.

Free, not to do my own will, nor the will of the brethren and their writings but to do the Lord's will as He leads and guides through His Word and His Holy Spirit.

Step back, read God's Word.  Ask the Holy Spirit to teach you directly.  See what He has to say.  Christ has set us free.  We can stand firm in this knowledge and understanding.  And definitely, I would not submit to the yoke of slavery to that spiritual abuse again, at least as far as I can help it and have awareness of.

I hope and pray the same for any and all who are experiencing such bondage.  May you break free and be free indeed.  Have confidence in the Lord, His Word and the empowering, guidance of the Holy Spirit.  I ask this for you and for me in Jesus' name.  Amen.

                                                 ~ ERC  September 2025 ~

Based on Galatians 5:1 (ESV).

Sing, Christ is Enough, along with Hillsong.