In what ways can we experience the "freedom" mentioned in Psalm 118:5 today? Setting the Scene: Psalm 118:5 in Its Own Words “In my distress I called to the LORD, and He answered and set me free.” (Psalm 118:5) What Freedom Meant for the Psalmist • The psalmist cried out under pressure, oppression, or danger and was released from it. • Freedom here is not abstract; it is a concrete rescue by the Lord Himself, producing spaciousness, relief, and restored joy. The Nature of Biblical Freedom • Freedom is God-given, not self-generated (Psalm 118:5). • It is anchored in the Lord’s steadfast love (Psalm 118:1). • It reaches its fullest expression in Christ: “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36) How We Experience This Freedom Today 1. Freedom from Sin’s Penalty • “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:1) • Trusting Christ’s finished work removes guilt and grants full pardon. 2. Freedom from Sin’s Power • “In Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set you free from the law of sin and death.” (Romans 8:2) • The indwelling Spirit empowers new desires and abilities to live righteously. 3. Freedom from Fear • “I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.” (Psalm 34:4) • Confidence in God’s sovereignty displaces anxiety about the future. 4. Freedom to Approach God Boldly • “Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence.” (Hebrews 4:16) • Christ’s priesthood removes every barrier to intimate fellowship with the Father. 5. Freedom for Obedience • “I will walk in freedom, for I have sought Your precepts.” (Psalm 119:45) • Scripture-guided living is not restrictive; it is the true pathway to liberty. 6. Freedom to Serve Others • “You, brothers, were called to freedom; but do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh. Serve one another in love.” (Galatians 5:13) • Love-directed service replaces self-centered living. Living Out This Freedom Daily • Meditate on God’s promises; renew the mind in truth (John 8:31-32). • Confess sin quickly and claim forgiveness (1 John 1:9). • Depend on the Spirit’s empowering presence (2 Corinthians 3:17). • Reject legalism and worldly bondage; stand firm in gospel liberty (Galatians 5:1). • Practice sacrificial love, the mark of genuine freedom (Galatians 5:14). Encouragement to Walk in Liberty God’s answer to distress was freedom for the psalmist, and the same Lord offers complete liberty today. Standing on His unchanging Word, believers can enjoy release from guilt, fear, and bondage, and step into the spacious life of joyful obedience and loving service. |
    |