Tuesday: The False Sense of Freedom

Scripture:  1 Kings 22:30 (ESV) - "And the king of Israel said to Jehoshaphat, 'I will disguise myself and go into battle, but you wear your robes.' And the king of Israel disguised himself and went into battle."

Galatians 5:1 (ESV) - "For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery."

King Ahab's decision to disguise himself reflects his attempt to control his fate, driven by a false sense of freedom. He believed he could evade God's judgment through his own cunning, cloaking himself in deception. This is a common trap today; we often believe that by managing our circumstances alone, we can attain freedom. However, instead of liberating us, this leads us into deeper bondage to our pride.

Paul's message to the Galatians reminds us that true freedom is found in Christ. Freedom is not about self-sufficiency but living in the freedom Christ provides. Our self-constructed freedoms often become the chains that bind us more tightly to our sin. Christ’s freedom is true and everlasting, calling us to live beyond our narrow perceptions.

Jesus embodies ultimate freedom, offering us liberation from the bondage of pride and the illusion of control. By following Him, we are invited to experience a life of genuine freedom—one that does not depend on our manipulations but on His sacrifice and grace.

Action Step:

Reflect on an area where you’re trying to maintain control. Release this area to God in prayer, asking for the courage to trust His perfect will over your limited understanding.

Prayer:

Father, forgive me for times when I try and control situations and outcomes.  Help me to trust You instead of trying to control.  And help me to trust You with the outcomes and results.  

Song of the Day:

Who You Say I Am - Hillsong Worship