Freedom in Christ
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Romans 5:8
If you wonder about the cost of our nation’s freedom, all you need to do is walk through Arlington National Cemetery in our nation’s capital. Buried there are thousands of men and women who served in our nation’s armed forces. This cemetery is a reminder that our freedom was won and continues to exist at a great cost. Special attention is given throughout the cemetery to show the high value we Americans place on the sacrifices these men and women made for our liberty.
If you wonder about the cost to free you from Satan’s tyranny, all you need to do is look at this verse. You are loved so much that God was willing to nail His own Son to a cross to gain you back from Satan’s clutches. God didn’t do this because we were people who deserved this gift of freedom, but He acted in love “while we were still sinners”. What a comfort this is for us who are troubled (or enslaved) with worry, temptations and sin. Jesus was willing to sacrifice Himself to free us from Satan’s prison, despite our sinfulness!
This freedom from Satan’s power comforts us as we continue dealing with worry, temptations, and sin. “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)
What a Friend we have in Jesus, All our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry Ev'rything to God in prayer!
Oh, what peace we often forfeit, Oh, what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry Ev'rything to God in prayer!
Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged, Take it to the Lord in prayer!
Can we find a Friend so faithful Who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our ev'ry weakness– Take it to the Lord in prayer.
The Lutheran Hymnal 457:1,2