The Freedom He Paid For
Rasol Manouchehri Ardakani - 08 September 2025
“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
When Jesus died on the cross, He didn’t just make a down payment on our freedom. He paid it in full. The chains of sin, guilt, shame, and fear were broken once and for all. Yet how often do we find ourselves picking them back up?
The “yoke of slavery” Paul talks about is anything that pulls us back into bondage. It could be the weight of past mistakes. It might be the constant feeling that you’re not good enough. It might even be religious legalism – trying to earn God’s love by ticking boxes instead of resting in His grace.
I’ve had moments where I’ve slipped back into striving. I’ve served God faithfully but found myself secretly wondering if I was doing enough to make Him pleased with me. In those moments, the Holy Spirit has reminded me of this truth: “You are free. Stop acting like you’re still in chains.”
The freedom Jesus gives is not fragile. It’s not based on our performance or our emotions. It’s based on His finished work. That’s why Paul says, “Stand firm.” Freedom is not just a gift, it’s a position we take and hold onto.
If you’ve been feeling heavy, maybe today is the day to lay those chains down for good. The chains of guilt. The chains of fear. The chains of trying to earn what Jesus already paid for. You don’t have to earn His love. You already have it.
Friend, Jesus did not free you so you could walk a few steps and then turn back. He freed you so you could run into His arms, live in His joy, and shine His light in the world.
Prayer of the Day:
Lord Jesus, thank You for paying the full price for my freedom. Help me to live in it every day and never return to the chains You have broken. Amen.