“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1 (ESV)
We all know that the truth will set us free (John 8:32). But the reality is, usually before we step into freedom, we are offended and upset by that truth. Truth has to confront that which holds us in bondage, or in deception. These are the strongholds that we may not even know are there until the truth hits its mark. Yes, there is coming a Great Awakening, but before then there is a rude awakening going on. Eyes are being opened to what is going on behind the curtain, both in our lives, in the church and in the public realm!
As freedom comes the temptation is to step back into old ways of bondage. Resist it. Stand firm in your freedom. Don’t allow your old man the flesh, the world or religion put you back under its yoke. You are free. Now walk in that freedom!
Allow God to show you what it is that is keeping you from freedom today, and then apply the key of truth, even if it hurts to step into your new life of freedom! Ask God for grace to break out of old patterns and habits that have fit you like a glove. He first has to reveal it, then you need the courage to get rid of it. This is not time to simply box it up and store it away just in case you need it someday. No, put that thing to death, even if it was good. God is calling you to great! Thank Him for that.
Pray also for your pastor. Ask God to allow him to see the things that have kept him in bondage. God is calling us, including your pastor, up the holy hill (Psalm 24:3-6). What was acceptable last year, or in the past season, may not be right for this new day. Pray for your pastor to be completely set free from all that holds him back as a pastor, preacher, teacher, leader, father and husband. Ask God to bring his hidden things into the light. And thank the Lord for pouring out the grace upon your pastor to prepare Him for the days that are coming!
