True Freedom

It is a mark of maturity when a person learns that true freedom involves accepting responsibility. Israel’s exodus experience taught them (and us, if we let it) that their relationship with God lay in fulfilling three important responsibilities:

1. Follow God (Exodus 13:17-22)
2. Trust God (Exodus 14:1-31)
3. Praise God. (Exodus 15:12-21)

George Morrison (1866-1928) said, ‘It took one night to take Israel out of Egypt, but forty years to take Egypt out of Israel.’ How long will it take you to let go of stubbornness and pride to follow God wholeheartedly?

Trust is built on credibility, reliability, and intimacy (BetterUp.com). God is credible; His promises come true. God is reliable; He will not leave you. God desires an intimate relationship with you. And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; For You, LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You. Psalm 9:10 NKJ

Once Pharaoh’s army was drowned, the Israelites burst into songs of praise (Ex 15:1). This is the first time they did so since Moses started dealing with Pharaoh to free his slaves. They were still immature, but they began to praise. For a moment, they got to the third tier of freedom.

Yes, the Israelites grumbled again, were in fear again, … sinned again. It was not a one-and-done lesson. It takes maturity for God’s people to sing praises when the darkness seems to invade and envelope (see Job 35:10; Psalm 42:8; Matt. 26:30; Acts 16:25). Growing up spiritually to the freedom to do as God leads takes time.

But if we stick to the path, God will teach us how to live in His freedom, in His peace. Are you at peace? Let’s talk.