What does it mean to be truly free? Many speak of freedom of speech, freedom of religion or freedom of choice. We here terms like sexual freedom and think “progressive”. What most people mean is life without boundaries or rules.

In our modern society we hold truth as realitive and each person decides what is right or wrong. But does this mean real freedom or is this actually bondage masked by false intellect?

Our 13 year old is always testing the boundaries and seeking more “freedom”. He complains about certain restrictions and rules. He says the rules are not fair and uses the “everyone else” argument. As a parent, I know the restrictions and boundaries are there for his protection because we know better than his 13 year old mind and we actually place these boundaries not to restrict but to give him better freedom in a protected environment. We limit his time of cell phone use, for example, because we understand the damage of constant stimulation and heavy testing. Too much and kids become depressed and disconnected with real relationships. This boundary therefore gives him the greatest freedom he can have without being placed in the bondage of addiction and depression.

In the same way, God has given each of us boundaries for our lives. This is not to restrict our freedom but to give us the most freedom in a protected environment. He places rules on sex because of the damage and bondage we can put ourselves if not handled properly. We know the evils of pornography, adultery and STDs. These can lead to shameful addiction, broken families and ecen death. When we live within the boundaries God has placed then we can enjoy life to the fullest without fear of losing our freedoms.

We fail many times though and find ourselves caught in bondage. But there is a wonderful hope and escape. Jesus came to us and broke that bondage. He took our sins upon himself so that we can have real freedom in him. His death and resurrection secured real freedom and real life.

Thank God for boundaries and rules for our own protection and thank God for Jesus. We can live a real life with real freedom.