Daily Devotional - Give the Gift of Freedom

Then you recently turned and did what was right in My sight—every man proclaiming liberty to his neighbor; and you made a covenant before Me in the house which is called by My name. 
—Jeremiah 34:15, NKJV

Have you ever experienced the wonderful feeling of being set free from something? Maybe someone has paid a debt for you or a boss has said, “Never mind. I don’t need you to do that after all.” If you have ever been dominated by another individual and you were set free, you know how wonderful freedom is. Whether it happens on a large scale or a small scale, being set free from an obligation or a burden is a great feeling.

In today’s scripture, the Bible says we can “proclaim liberty” to others. I encourage you to give the gift of freedom to your family, friends, neighbors and co-workers whenever possible. People will love you for it. Obviously, this does not mean letting others do whatever they want to do. But it does mean that you stop trying to control people and situations.

For years I tried desperately to control and remold my husband and children, until I finally realized that my efforts were acts of selfishness, not love. I told myself that I simply wanted God’s best for them; however, I had decided what His best was and was trying to force it on them.

At one point in my life, I wanted all my children to preach, just as I do. That did not happen, and, actually, I now realize that was not even what would have been best after all. God is in control, and I am glad.

Make sure the atmosphere in your home and your business is free and relaxed, not one that makes people feel that your relationship with them will be tense and disapproving if they do not please you all the time. When people make mistakes, do not make them feel rejected, but go the extra mile to make them feel forgiven, accepted—and free. Treat others the way you want to be treated.

Love Others Today: Proclaim liberty, and give everyone around you the gift of freedom.