THURSDAY

Romans 8:1-2; 14-17

As we’ve been noticing this week, there are indeed many ways to experience “ties that bind” in ways that drain life rather than contribute to flourishing. At the core of those things that hinder our ability to experience the freedom that God offers us is our understanding of the way we relate to God. Even more, perhaps, is how we think God relates to us. At the very heart of the message of good news of great joy that Jesus came to proclaim is the assurance that God’s stance toward us is one of love and grace, not condemnation and judgment (John 3:16 17). This is what Paul proclaims so powerfully in today’s passage, and in myriads of other places throughout the New Testament. Take a few moments to slowly and thoughtfully read through today’s passage as you consider what it means to be set free and embrace the freedom offered to us through Jesus. As you do so, consider the following:

• To what extent do you live with the awareness that there is no condemnation for you?

• What is it that God is promising to set us free from? Explain what you mean.

• How does the imagery of being children rather than slaves give a greater richness to what it means to live freely?

• What do you sense (or experience) the difference between living in fear and embracing being a child of God to be?

• In what ways do you sense God inviting you to experience greater freedom?

Take a few moments to share with God in prayer what is on your heart.