Freedom is complicated

We often associate the notion of freedom with a lack of rule or restriction. It is about doing whatever we want whenever we want. And today we live for freedom; we feel entitled to it.

But is this type of freedom really good for us--or even possible? For example, eating freely without restraint will certainly bring us health problems; spending without limit lead to bankruptcy; living without regard for the rule of law would destroy society. So, contrary to our natural inclination, freedom must happen within certain boundary. 

Perhaps the real issue is finding the course of life that permits the greatest freedom within the constraints--the realities--of our existence. In this regard, Jesus' words on freedom stand out: "If you hold to my teaching, you are truly my disciples. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free." (John 8:31-32) He ties our freedom to knowing the truth he teaches.

What is this truth that leads to freedom?

The truth that we are no longer slaves to our selfish nature because of what Jesus did on the cross. The truth about who we are and what we are made for. Without knowing answers to these basic questions in life, we are like fish out of water, trying to live freely on dry ground. A fish needs to know it's a fish and to stay within the bounds of its own environment (i.e., in water) in order to enjoy the freedom that it is made for.