John 8:31-32

31. To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. 32. Then you will know the truth and the truth will set you free.”

This is the Scripture that was in my mind when I woke up this morning and I really love this promise. Quite honestly these verses have been brewing in my heart and on my mind for a few days now. I have to admit that there are times in studying to write I get a little bit anxious but then something I read gives me a wow factor. I don’t presume to have a sin free life, but I am thankful to a program that I’m led to participate in called Celebrate Recovery.

Celebrate Recovery is a Christ centered 12 step program, with 8 principles based on the Beatitudes. What we do in CR is seek Christ’s healing power for life’s Hurts, Habits and Hang Ups, and sin. Through the 12 steps this program is teaching me the true love that God has for me and His forgiveness and learning to forgive myself and others, as well as making amends for harm done. One of the things I believe I’ve been set free from for going on 2 years is freedom from active addiction to drugs.

What I believe that this verse is saying: Is that Jesus is telling the Jews who had believed Him, If you abide in His Word, holding fast to His teaching and live in accordance with them then you truly are His disciples. And you will know the truth that leads to salvation and the truth that will set free you from sin, not from ignorance.

So in perspective what must I do to be set free? Study Gods Word, living as best I can holding fast to the teachings of Jesus. And just for me personally I go to CR for extra help in addition to several Bible Studies. I’m not saying that you the reader has to go to CR, but if you find yourself struggling from any of life’s Hurts, Habits or Hand Ups feel free to check us out.

If you’re in need of a Savior, pray to God asking Him to reveal Himself in a Mighty way to you. Just talk to Him laying your troubles at the foot of the cross, then be prepared to pick up your cross and follow Jesus. It’s not easy all the time but it’s worth it. If your in need of freedom in some way? Seek Christ through His Word allowing Him to be your Lord, submitting to His Authority.

By © Copyright Bart Hickey, All Rights Reserved, 2011, 2012 and 2013