Real Freedom

Read Romans 6:15-22

One of the greatest motivating factors for people throughout the world today is the quest for freedom, for self-determination. Armies fight for it. Nations vote for it. Individuals work for it.

But here in Romans 6, Scripture teaches that, ultimately, no one is ever totally "free." In the end, everyone serves either God or sin. In fact, Paul uses the word "slaves" to describe the relationship (Rom. 6:16-20; see "slaves" at Rom. 6:16). We are either slaves of righteousness or slaves of sin.

What does that imply for our understanding of the nature of freedom? Is complete autonomy possible? Is there such a thing as self-rule or political self-determination? Yes, in a limited sense. But here as elsewhere, Scripture describes real freedom as a change of masters: being set free from slavery to sin in order to become slaves to righteousness instead.

All of us are enslaved to sin from the moment of conception. Our only hope is Christ, who is able to emancipate us from that bondage (Rom. 7:24-25). Then, having saved us, He enables us through His Holy Spirit to do what we could not do in and of ourselves--live in obedience to God's Law (Rom. 8:3-4). Therein lies true freedom.

(from The Word in Life Study Bible published by Thomas Nelson)

Walking with God

"And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him" (Genesis 5:24)


The story of Enoch, though brief, is telling, and never fails to bring refreshing to the child of God. "Before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God" (Hebrews 11:5). He was happy in the fellowship of God; he had a yearning to please God in every move and motive of his life.

"Walking with God" suggests deep earnestness, as in the case of Jehoshaphat whose "heart was lifted up in the ways of the Lord" (2 Chronicles 17:6). "Walking with God" means total yieldedness (Colossians 2:6). "Walking with God" means close communion with God.

The commencement of this communion with God in Enoch's life did not come until the birth of his son (Genesis 5:22). The coming of that special blessing from the Lord quickened his devotion to the Lord.

The continuance of his communion with God was uninterrupted for three hundred years despite many irksome responsibilities. Jude tells us that Enoch was surrounded by wicked men who abused the name of the Lord (v.14,15). But he "pleased God."

The culmination of his communion with God was crowned by entrance upon the life or perfect fellowship above. He did not have to die. God took him, just like He will "change" and take every believer when the Lord comes for the Church.

The little girl told her mother that in Sunday School, "we have been learning about a man who used to go for walks with God. His name was Enoch. And, mother, one day they went for an extra long walk, and they walked on, and on, and on, until God said to Enoch, 'You are a long way from home; you had better just come in and stay.' And he went in."

"In thy presence is fullness of joy" (Psalm 16:11)

(this devotional by Dr. N. A. Woychuk)

Amazing Grace

The inspiring story behind John Newton's writing of "Amazing Grace", which reflects his conversion from a miserable life of slave trading, is a familiar one to most Christians. Yet all believers can benefit from a reminder of God's astounding compassion for humanity.

We see throughout history that humans have a knack for building walls to keep God out, only to trap themselves in their own prisons. God has repeatedly responded by rescuing those who languish in chains of spiritual darkness--not only forgiving them but also richly restoring them to true life. Even the most hardened souls--like the wicked and idolatrous King Manasseh of Israel--can discover God's amazing grace. And although our response to such grace must always be inadequate, God lovingly accepts our offerings of worship. Let us thank him for his grace toward us.

Amazing grace, how sweet the sound

that saved a wretch like me!

I once was lost, but now am found,

Was blind but now I see.

'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,

and grace my fears relieved;

How precious did that grace appear

the hour I first believed!

Through many dangers, toils and snares

I have already come;

'Tis grace that brought me safe thus far,

And grace will lead me home.

When we've been there ten thousand years,

Bright shining as the sun,

We've no less days to sing God's praise

Than when we'd first begun.

(from the Praise and Worship Study Bible--Tyndale House)