Free to love with Jesus

Romans 6:7 for he who has died is freed from sin. Jesus Christ came to set us free from sin. John recorded Jesus in John 8:31-32. “So Jesus was saying to those Jews who had believed Him, ‘If you continue in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.’” Jesus declared His mission of deliverance when He read from Isaiah 61. Luke 4:18 “THE SPIRIT OF THE LORD IS UPON ME, BECAUSE HE ANOINTED ME TO PREACH THE GOSPEL TO THE POOR. HE HAS SENT ME TO PROCLAIM RELEASE TO THE CAPTIVES, AND RECOVERY OF SIGHT TO THE BLIND, TO SET FREE THOSE WHO ARE OPPRESSED.” If we have been united with Jesus in His death and resurrection, then we have died to sin, and are freed from sin’s power. Paul’s point was that since this is so, there’s no way believers can continue in sin because they stand in super-abounding grace. The encouragement for us today who are living to love with Jesus is that we are free to love with Jesus. It’s not a burden. It’s not difficult. It’s not even against our new nature now that we are united with Christ. We are free to say, “No.” to selfishness, unbelief, idolatry, unforgiveness, hard-heartedness, fear, and all the other sins that hinder the flow of God’s love. I hope you will rejoice in the Lord today. Praise Him for the power of His death on the cross and the resurrection. Sin’s power has been broken. Have you had a particular sin that has troubled you often? Declare the truth before the Lord and the enemy of your soul, “Jesus has freed me from the power of lust” (or pride or selfishness or whatever). I am free to love with You, Jesus! Thank You! Today, may we enjoy the fruit of Jesus’ saving and sanctifying work on our behalf.