Factual Freedom
The deception of the flesh
📖 “You were set free from the tyranny of sin.” —Romans 6:18 (WEY)
Many believers remain in bondage—not because freedom is unavailable, but because they misunderstand its nature. Some are unaware that liberty from sin’s rule is already theirs in Christ, while others mistakenly believe this freedom means the complete eradication of the flesh. But Scripture clarifies that while the flesh remains, its power to govern is broken.
Romans 6 declares that through Christ’s death, sin shall not have dominion over us. This does not mean the removal of sin’s presence in our earthly bodies, but the end of its right to rule us. The old man—who we were in Adam—was crucified with Christ, never to live again (Rom. 6:6). What remains are the patterns and habits of that former life, which Paul refers to as “the flesh.” These ways persist, but they no longer define us or control us.
Imagine a dethroned ruler who still lingers in the kingdom. Though he no longer has any legitimate authority, he deceives the citizens into obeying him out of habit. The difference between bondage and freedom lies not in his removal, but in recognizing his defeat. So it is with the flesh. While it remains in our earthly experience, we no longer belong to it—we belong to Christ, who is our life.
The focus, then, is not on suppressing or eliminating the flesh through effort, but on yielding to Christ. As we trust Him to live through us, others will see the evidence—not because we are fixated on overcoming self, but because we are occupied with Him. True freedom is not found in examining ourselves for progress, but in fixing our eyes on the One who is our sufficiency.
🛡 “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free.” —Galatians 5:1
Prayer of Confidence
Father, You have declared me free in Christ, and I rejoice in this unshakable reality. Sin’s dominion is broken, and I stand firm in the liberty You have provided. I refuse to live as though I am still bound, for I am Yours, and You are my life. As I walk in trust, Your life is made evident in me. Thank You for securing my freedom and working in me to will and to do of Your good pleasure. Amen.
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✍️ Devotional Credit: Abide Above