When I was younger, I was blinded by lies and chose the prodigal path. Sunday Morning sermons told me I was a worthless sinner, unworthy to sit in a pew with saints. Weekends with young men told me I was valued for being physically attractive. Finding the balance each week, I was lost somewhere between sinner and saint. The truth was hiding from me. Because I had no desire to seek it. The world told me I was free to be me.

Setting my identity in world values, I found acceptance. The more I looked like the world, the more rewards I gathered on my shining star chart.

My interior soul was crushing from the weight of being me. Self-centered, self-absorbed, and self-focused as a young adult, I had no room for Jesus in my heart.

A worldview mindset presented me with false identities. I was a prisoner bound with self-imposed chains. In bondage to pleasing others and pleasing self… I grieved my Groom.

Jesus loved me and watched me self-destruct. When the Groom reached out His hand, I turned away from His love. What kept me from accepting myself as His Bride? Shame.

I was unable to set myself free from shame. Seeking my identity in my education, career, friendships, and intimacy. These chains could not be broken until Jesus- my Groom- showed the Truth and set me free.

BIBLE STUDY

“If you want to be set free, you have to understand the truth.” -Angie Smith, Matchless Bible Study

TODAY’S VERSE

“You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:32 CSB)

LIVING FOR TODAY

I am living for today when I live as the Bride of Christ: loved, and treasured for who I am. By letting go of worldview identities, my heart opens today for an identity in Christ. My chains are broken when Truth conquers lies.

©2023 Christine Abraham Devotions

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Christine Abraham writes for the Bible Cafe™ community. Learn about living by the Fruit of the Spirit as you enjoy her online Bible studies. Join Christine at the Bible Cafe™ University for weekly Bible teaching.