John 8:31-36
31 Then Jesus said to those Jews who believed Him, “If you abide in My word, you are My disciples indeed.
32 And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”
33 They answered Him, “We are Abraham’s descendants, and have never been in bondage to anyone. How can You say, ‘You will be made free’?”
34 Jesus answered them, “Most assuredly, I say to you, whoever commits sin is a slave of sin. 35 And a slave does not abide in the house forever, but a son abides forever.
36 Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.
It is not our worldly circumstances that make us free.
It is our spiritual condition.
The Jews had a hard time understanding their condition.
We also struggle to understand sometimes.
If we are in sin, we are not free.
We are slaves to our selfishness, our emotions, our wants and desires.
But we can all be free of our sin.
We can all change our lives and become the best version of ourselves.
If we abide in the Lord's word.
Meaning we do what He has told us to do.
If we live our lives in service to Him, doing what Jesus taught.
Simply turn to Jesus.
Read the gospels, learn what Jesus teaches.
Put those things into practice.
Be baptized into Christ, for the forgiveness of sin and receive the Holy Spirit.
Don't try to "not sin".
Instead focus on doing what Jesus teaches.
Be honest in all your dealings and speaking and you will not lie.
Love your neighbor, be kind, be generous and you will not mistreat people.
Love your spouse, put your focus on him/her, and you will not commit adultery.
Concentrate on helping others and you will not hurt them.
Put others' needs ahead of your own and you will not be selfish.
Loving God with all our heart means loving all these people that God made.
This is what following the Lord is and it will free you to be your best self.
Follow Jesus.
Be free.
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