Freedom From the Tyranny of Things

AS Christians we live under grace, not law. We enjoy a certain freedom of choice and commitment. But Paul reminds us that our choices and commitments, while freely made, do not always bring freedom (1 Corinthians 6:12). Often they overpower us: we no longer possess our possessions—they possess us! We can be consumed by our jobs, our wealth, our houses, our hobbies, even our churches.

Are there any ways to manage this problem? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Determine your limits. What can you actually handle? What is realistic?
2. Let time go by before making decisions and commitments. Sooner or later you need to decide, but very few choices are better made sooner than later.
3. Pay attention to agreement or disagreement with your spouse and/or a close friend or associate. There is wisdom in mutual decision making.
4. To manage the commitment you are taking on, what are we willing to give up? Taking on new responsibilities means trading one set of problems for another. Are we prepared for that?
5. Commit to giving away as well as taking on. That declares your freedom from the tyranny of things and responsibilities.

Courtesy of Nelson’s New Illustrated Bible Commentary
Unless otherwise noted, Scripture taken from the New King James Version®, NKJV © 1982 by Thomas Nelson.
Used by permission. All rights reserved.