Hi Everyone,
Have a read of John 8:31-36. I've been meditating on this portion of scripture all week, there is so much that we can receive in just a few verses. That's the power of God's WORD! It's food, strength and nourishment to our body and soul! Praise God!
"If you abide in My Word then you are My disciples indeed; Then you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free... If the Son sets you free you shall be free indeed." (John 8:31-32 and 36)
Let's pull this apart and see what Jesus is saying.
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If - we have a choice, God always gives us a choice! (Deuteronomy 30:19, Joshua 24:15)
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Abide - to live in it continuously not just visit when we have a need. (Ephesians 3:17, 1 John 2:27, John 15:7). This means to have continuous communication with our Lord, throughout the day in whatever we are doing. It doesn't need to be just once a day when we have prayer time, but let HIM be part of everything we do, say and choices we make throughout the day. Remember Jesus is the WORD, so as we communicate and fellowship with Him and His WORDS, the Holy Spirit will guide and lead us all day! As we abide in His Word the Holy Spirit will bring revelation which is what makes it real to us!
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Then - The Truth - The word of God is the ultimate truth. Not philosophies, opinions, magazines, even many news reports. All these things change, but His Truth remains forever! (1 Peter 1:25, Mark 13:31, Isaiah 40:8) That brings security and stability into our lives. If it doesn't line up with God's Word, then it will change and it's not the final truth. (1 Samuel 15:29, Malachi 3:6) Now when we received the revelation of what the Word is saying to us, that's what makes us free! This is how important it is to know the Truth. In 1865 on 18th December, slavery was abolished in the USA. Now, the plantation owners were upset so the spokesman said, 'don't tell them'. So all those men, women and children were kept in slavery, for a long time, when they could have been free! That's what the devil tries to do with us, if he can stop us from finding the Truth of God's word he can keep us captive. And this can happen so easily in our busy lives, our days are so full and by night we are too tired to be able to absorb any nourishment from the Word! Don't be kept captive, find out what the Truth is! That's what will set you free! (2 Timothy 2:13, 2 John 1:7)
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Jesus - "If the Son sets you free, you shall be free indeed." (John 8:36) Now remember Jesus is the Word of God (John 1:14, Revelation 19:13) And He said in John 14:6 "I am the way, the truth and the life." Only Jesus can set us free! Free from addictions, sickness and any kind of bondage.
Yes, there are groups we can attend but often these things are temporary if not combined with God's Word and prayer. But because of Jesus' sacrifice on the cross and resurrection which defeated death, just as He had the victory then so do we! And so when He sets us free, we are truly free! (Galatians 5:1+13, Romans 8:21)
Take time to let this portion of scripture sink in and bring revelation because when you realise how free you really are in Christ Jesus it will change your life!
God Bless you all and have a great week!
Love Giovanna!