True Freedom.

At a university, the narrative around religion often focuses on the “rules” of the bible, all the things you “can’t” do if you’re a Christian. It’s led me to question why the bible contains so many do’s and don’ts. That doesn’t seem like the freedom we hear so much of in the Christian life. It doesn’t fit with what our world sees as true freedom.Our media and culture would like to say to us that freedom is the ability to do anything we want when we want. It is whatever we think would be pleasurable at the moment. It changes as our desires change, and it has the ability to hurt those around us. It rejects the idea that limiting our choices is helpful for us. It is all about instant gratification at any cost. But, friends, this is not the freedom God wants for us. He wants to free us from bondage, pain, and suffering. His freedom involves making choices that might be hard, but that will ultimately lead us into more of his vast love and grace. He offers pointers for how to live life to keep us safe and help us flourish. His "rules" are just his way of setting us up for the most fulfilling life, the life he originally intended for us all. His freedom may not look like always being able to do what seems most fun or pleasurable, but it's always going to benefit us and those around us.I know it seems appealing to be able to say whatever you want to people, but wouldn't you rather make the effort to speak life to those around you and show them the value they have in God's eyes? Instead of running to addictive behaviors to help you ignore your pain, wouldn't you rather let the one true healer come into your life and make you whole again? Rather than letting your feelings dictate who it is you will spend your time with, wouldn't you rather see with God's eyes who needs you most?Though it may seem counter-intuitive, allowing God to renew our minds and limit our choice is actually the most free we can be. It frees us from the bondage and consequences of sin. It allows us to better understand the heart of our Father. It shows us the way to live that will lead us into a more loving life. His law is meant to bring joy. His words are meant to heal and fulfill our deepest desires. He is our Creator; he knows the best way for us. He created the most beautiful life we could imagine, but we have to make the choice to live in that freedom.Let your Father lead you into His abundant freedom; it's the best place you can be.words by Breanna Maier and photo by Kailin Richardson