Free-range is used with reference to chickens and livestock not penned, but allowed to move about relatively freely for feeding or grazing. It is with relative freedom as guidance and protection are still provided as they are looked over. Therefore, it can be viewed as freedom within a certain sphere for their own wellbeing.
Some view laws and rules as being too limiting and restrictive. However, to live rule-free creates conflict between others who may have also chosen their own way and leads down a pathway that most often produces personal harm and regret. Would we not rather live regret free by being led away from living after our own selfish desires to following the Divine desire of God? (consider 2 Corinthians 7:10) Though the way leading to life — a pathway of righteousness — is noted as being narrow (Matthew 7:14), the way of God’s Will is wide enough for all who choose to enter on it. God’s way is also wide enough for us to move about enjoying abundant life. (John 10:10)
In Psalm 119 we read. . .
“(44) I will keep your law continually, forever and ever, (45) and I shall walk in a wide place, for I have sought your precepts.” (Psalm 119:44-45 ESV)
Though God’s law and precepts provided boundaries in accordance with His Divine Wisdom, the space for living or walking through life was still viewed as wide. It is a sphere in which one can walk at liberty; free from the consequences of sin and the regret that would then follow. Within the range of proper boundaries blessed freedom can still be fully enjoyed. However, some, in a desire to pursue free living, do not realize how enslaved they are. (i.e. John 8:33-34) Abiding in God’s commands is a means of providing freedom as even Jesus stated where we read. . .
“(31)So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, “If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, (32) and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”” (John 8:31-32 ESV)
To reject the truth is to be false to ourselves in thinking we are free!
In view of the freedom we can enjoy as Christians, Peter exhorted. . .
“(16) Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.” (1 Peter 2:16 ESV)
Freedom is not the result of a self-willed life, but a right-willed one. Therefore, may we duly appreciate the sphere of freedom we have in the truth of Christ!
Have a great day ENJOYING THE FREEDOM THAT HOLDS HEAVEN WITHIN ITS RANGE!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area. www.porttownsendchurchofchrist.org)
