Three words in the New Testament are used to describe freedom for which Christ has set us free… (Rev. Watts, The Christian Magazine)

1. A word for forgiveness, which refers to God's pardon.

2. A word often translated authority. This word refers to the privilege and authority purchased by the Lord Jesus through the precious blood for our freedom.

3. A word that pictures one who was formerly in prison, but has now been liberated.

4. “You are fully free when you have the desire, the ability, and the opportunity to do what will leave you with no regrets forever.” –John Piper

“If you don’t have the desire to do a thing, you are not fully free to do it. Oh, you may muster the willpower to do what you don’t want to do, but nobody calls that full freedom… And if you have the desire to do something, but no ability to do it, you are not free to do it. And if you have the desire and the ability to do something but no opportunity to do it, you are not free to do it. And if you have the desire to do something, and the ability to do it, and the opportunity to do it, but it destroys you in the end, you are not fully free – not free indeed.” –John Piper

1. The cross gave me the power to be set free from the power of the enemy.

2. The cross brings the power of God to my life.

3. The cross brings freedom when I admit my need.

4. The cross brings freedom when I am faithful to Christ’s teaching.

1. I must die to the opinion of others.

2. I must die to the idea that I can get to heaven by my good works or being good enough.

3. I must die to this world’s interest in me.

4. I must be able to see my full need for dependence on the cross! The closer I get to the cross, the more I see my unworthiness.

1. Freedom will bring a heart to serve!

2. Freedom will bring a humility that only desires for Christ to be seen in me!

3. Freedom will bring a hunger to be obedient!

4. Freedom will bring a full surrender to the will and desire of God!

There are many who are held prisoner by bitterness, guilt, resentment, worry…held captive by memories… Jesus died for your freedom!

“Father, only you understand how much I’ve been hurt by these people. I don’t want to carry the pain for another second. I don’t want to be a bitter person. But I need your grace and the power of the cross to release my hurt and to forgive those who’ve hurt me. This is the turning point. First, I need to experience your forgiveness. You know all the ways I’ve hurt others, and I’m so sorry for my sins. Jesus, thank you for dying for me. I accept your grace and forgiveness, and I need it daily. Today I’m turning to you, and I’m choosing to forgive the way you have forgiven me. Every time the memory comes back, I’ll forgive them again until the pain is gone. Heal my heart with your grace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.” - Rick Warren

Coming Next:
40 Days of Prayer and Fasting: March 5 – April 16, 2017
Crosswalk:
April 16: After the Cross - 3 Days Later