So many people define freedom as an absence of rules, a lack of restrictions, an ability to do anything you want. It makes sense. Human nature craves to be our own god, to be in control of our own life, to live on our own terms.

Life that way sounds free of restrictions, but you’ll find that a life lived without boundaries may not have rules but it creates chains. Chains of sin and chains of pain. It will build prison walls of addictions and lusts, locking doors with fear and shame.

It sounds like freedom but it’s really a cage.

Because true freedom isn’t about a lack of rules. It’s about a lack of chains.

True freedom isn’t about finding a way to circumvent the boundaries Christ gives us, but instead recognizing that the “rules” aren’t there to punish me or make me miss out. They’re there to keep us out of the prison that He brought me out of.

When we define freedom as a life without boundaries we miss out on a life without shackles. We make God’s word a burden instead of a guide to an abundant life.

And I know too much about what it sounds like when chains break at my feet to not listen to the One who bought my freedom.

You see, Jesus found me in a prison of my own making. It wasn’t my power that led me out. It was His and I know I can trust that His boundaries will continue to keep me free.

I’m not looking for a life without rules because I’m living a life without chains.