Listen and Live Freely

Christ lives in me.

Galatians 2:20 NLT

Recently on a trip from the country into the city, I drove by a dense forest. It looked beautiful from a distance.  But as I looked closely, I could see most of the trees were covered in thick vines that had climbed to the tree-tops, blocking the light from reaching them. This was not a healthy forest.

Nature has many visual pictures for us.

Those vines wrapped around all those trees, blocking the light, reminded me of people who live wrapped in cords of sin, blocking the light of Jesus. This is not a healthy way for people to live either.

Paul explains…

My old self has been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. So I live in this earthly body by trusting in the Son of God who loved me and gave himself for me (Galatians 2:20 NLT).

Someone needs to bring in chainsaws and clippers, to cut the forest free from the vines blocking all the light to the trees. Likewise, faith in Jesus, cuts away all the lies and bondage of sin blocking my heart from the light of truth in God’s Word.

God sent Jesus to free those who will listen and believe.

My old self, my old sinful life, has been crucified with Christ and Christ lives in me.

I am free in Christ.

And Paul explains how to stay free…

Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm (Ephesians 6:13 NLT).

Jesus gives me God’s armor… so I stay free.

Jesus makes all the difference. Now, I can listen and live freely in Him.

Father, in the quiet of my heart, You speak to me… whispering “Jesus has freed you, listen to Him and stay free.” Please help me use Your armor well, so I listen and stay free from enemy bondage. In Jesus name I pray, amen.

Stacy A. Davis