If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. John 8:36 (NIV)
For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery. Gal. 5:1 (ESV)
Lord Jesus, you’ve set me free in many ways, but I’m still not nearly as free as you intend. Though you’ve already freed me from the foolishness of thinking I could earn your acceptance and love; though you’ve liberated me from the fear of Judgment Day and death; though I’m quicker to own my brokenness and boast in my weakness, I’m still a babe, neophyte, and young rookie in so many other gospel freedoms.
Jesus, please free me to love your will and glory, a gazillion times more than my druthers and comfort. Free me to humble myself more quickly and gladly, in my family, and with my friends and co-workers. Help me conflict more redemptively and less defensively. Keep toppling my idols of control and my commitment to a pain-free heart.
Jesus, please free me from a busy, hurried spirit, so I can be present in the current moment and conversation. Make my “to love list” more important to me than my “to do list.” Help me make better eye contact and heart connection, with all kinds of people—including people I’d rather avoid. Free me to share the gospel quicker with strangers, and trust you more as this crazy political year advances.
Jesus, break even more of the chains of my insecurities, fears, and feelings of incompetency. Liberate me from thinking too much about what I’m not, by showing me more of you and who I am in you. Free me for greater spontaneity, louder laughter, saltier tears, and quicker repentances. So very Amen I pray, in your most tender and powerful name.