…whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.
James 1:25 (NIV)
We live in a country that reveres freedom. It isn’t just a concept or a word. It is a feeling that runs deeply through our society. It’s a touchstone of our history. And whenever it feels like it’s being threatened, Americans tend to get testy.
God wrote that longing for freedom into the software code of human nature. That impulse revolts against unwarranted restraints. Unworthy dictators. Unjust laws. These impositions on our freedom, and our reaction to them, show us just how fundamentally we hunger for liberty.
In James 1, we encounter a practical wisdom that shows us the true path into freedom. James helps us understand the anatomy of true freedom, how it really works.
Ultimately, we discover that every person must choose how they will seek freedom. One pathway starts with submission and leads to liberty. The other starts with rebellion and leads to death (1:13-15).
Here in verse 25, James tells us the key to living in freedom. We must develop a “hip-to-hip” relationship with the Word of God. Scripture does much more than convey doctrine. When we incorporate it into our thinking with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, Scripture actually helps us begin thinking and walking like God Himself.
Is there anyone who exhibits total freedom like God? Then it follows that the more we think and act like Him, the more we will experience a life without constraint.
James tells us we must not only read the Word, we must actually “continue in it.” The Greek word he uses here means “remain beside.” The Word brings freedom when we allow truth to be our constant companion.
And then something amazing happens. James uses an important phrase. We must not forget “what we have heard” but actually “do it.” Another translation tells us to be a “doer of the Word.” The Greek word for “doer” is poietes. Does that sound similar to any English words you know? Hint: Think William Shakespeare, Emily Dickinson, and T.S. Eliot.
In other words, James tells us that when we walk side-by-side with the Word, we walk in freedom. And as we do, we become poets. Our lives exhibit the beauty of a well-turned phrase. We become flesh-and-blood manifestations of God’s total freedom.
Point to Ponder: Think about the closest relationships you have. Where have you seen someone living a life of poetry? How does their life exhibit the freedom-producing power of the Word?
NOTE: Stay tuned for another installment later this week. I’ll be sharing PART 2 of my workshop “Compassion Without Compromise.” This will also include links to the participant guide and my slide deck, both packed with resources that will allow you to dive deeper into the subject matter discussed.