Freedom. What a beautiful concept!

Freedom is important to the well-being of every part of God's creation. Men and animals both want freedom, almost without exception. Plant life benefits when there is freedom for growth. Mortals want to be free to think, say and do what they want. 

By our very nature, we dislike walls and fences; putting them up only to limit the freedom of others. The temptations of Adam and Eve lay partly in the possibility of having, seeing and knowing what God had denied them (Genesis 3:4-6). 

We naturally rebel against that which we believe restricts our thinking and actions. We’re created by God with the power of choice, encouraging new horizons, better answers and improved solutions. We want to think independently, even though often afraid of the responsibilities that liberty implies. 

Freedom is the open door to tremendous prospects and blessings, but it can cause problems if we don't use it wisely.

Driving from Savannah to Statesboro several years ago, I heard a caller on a talk show express concern at the increase in violent crime in recent years, and at other moral markers as well. He said much of it can be blamed on the irresponsible demands in society for the right to do whatever they want, and to exercise their freedom in selfish, even unlawful quests. 

The assertion was made that we can't have freedom without morality. This statement struck me as such an obvious truth, I’d like to offer some thoughts about its implications.

First, truth needs to be accepted, no matter who says it. We don't have to agree with everything someone stands for to recognize the validity of a viewpoint he holds.

Second, this statement is reflective of biblical teaching. Two New Testament writers, both apostles, offer some superb help. Paul said we should not allow our freedom from God to become a license to do whatever we want. "For you were called to freedom; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another" (Galatians 5:13). And in the context of encouraging civil obedience, Peter cautions his readers to live as those who are free in Christ. And yet, they shouldn’t use their  “freedom as a pretext for evil; but live as servants of God" (1 Peter 2:16).

We may look at the relation between freedom and morality in a future column. Thank you for taking time to read and think about it today.