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"The reality that faith didn't need any validation came through a desire to find some." source

The Deception of So-Called Freedom of Choice

Posted March 23, 2011 - 5:41pm

Many Americans believe they understand freedom because they live in a society built upon freedom of choice. And we often suppose a longer list of items on the menu amounts to freedom. And yet, for all our available choices we still cannot find the one thing we want. The multitude of choices before us often leaves us hanging in fear because we might pick the wrong one. I see it not only with big decisions but also when faced with microscopic details. Such is the irony of the fleshly idea of freedom. It is only when we see this world according to real life that freedom is recognized apart from circumstance or choice. :)

Comments

Re: The Deception of So-Called Freedom of Choice

by Visitor - Apr 3 2011 - 11:59pm

yah, good point. such a hard one to grasp too. lots of times one jumps up and down in an idea of freedom never really asking what freedom really is. then you hit the end of the rope.
So if the truth shall set you free, then the next question might be, "from what"?

so maybe the truth is really as simple as you say it is so often.

one, truth sets you free from lies. and death.
the truth is that in Christ you are alive, beloved, eternally safe, and no stupid or "incredibly savvy" decision could ever change that. takes a lot of pressure off doesn't it. agonizing over a decision and trying to figure out the best outcome is not freedom. nor is it particularly relaxing.

and maybe explains the secret Paul knows about contentment in all circumstances.

and where should our focus be? Fixing our eyes on Him.
Do I focus on my circumstances too much. absolutely. then i am ecstatic when things go "right". and in despair when they go down the drain.

but never really content.

but living in the present moment, trusting in Him, just being, I am content. more often please.........

Re: The Deception of So-Called Freedom of Choice

by theshovel - Apr 4 2011 - 2:19pm

This is encouraging to hear, my friend :)

Jim

Re: The Deception of So-Called Freedom of Choice

by Visitor - Mar 24 2011 - 3:15pm

Jim,

Then are you saying that our true freedom is found only within the realm of Christ? Because that is how I would understand you as saying it:)

Re: The Deception of So-Called Freedom of Choice

by theshovel - Mar 24 2011 - 4:27pm

That is exactly what I am saying. :)

Jim

Re: The Deception of So-Called Freedom of Choice

by Visitor - Jun 18 2011 - 2:03am

Interesting that we tend to equate freedom with choice. Weird. I wonder where that idea came from? I love how the definition of most things actually are absolutely warped outside the reality of Christ. Freedom is being in Christ.

Everything in reality hinges on Him, yet the world defines things apart from him and end up in an endless chase and delusion.

Re: The Deception of So-Called Freedom of Choice

by luvin - Jun 18 2011 - 8:04am

well said friend. Sounds like the Garden effect huh?