We have a crippling tendency to forget what God has done for us. For a while, we're humbled. Then, if we do not guard our hearts and minds, we begin to think we must have done something right for God to have been so good to us. Therein lies another road to captivity. It is the road of legalism. Hezekiah believed he was right with God because of what he had done.

Let's consider a series of lessons that lay the groundwork for our discussion of breaking free. I will list them as nine lessons about captivity and freedom. LESSON 1 The people of God can be oppressed by the enemy.

When you begin to feel lifeless in Him, look for the tourniquet that's cutting off the life flow. Most often we'll find it in earthly ties that are cinched too tightly.

Please don't be dismayed if you feel you are not already living a life that glorifies God! He never sheds light on our weaknesses or shortcomings for the sake of condemnation (Rom. 8:1). God makes us aware of hindrances so He can set us free!

Do you not know that if you offer yourself to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of that one you obey? Romans 6:16

Let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us … keeping our eyes on Jesus, the source and perfecter of our faith. Hebrews 12:1—2

Then take me prisoner to Your will Enslaved in Your safekeeping.

Any sacrifice we make in our quest for freedom will be wholly consumed and blessed by God. Notice something extremely important: Gideon prepared a sacrifice. Then we read in verse 21: "With the tip of the staff that was in his hand, the angel of the LORD touched the meat and the unleavened bread. Fire flared

Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. 2 Corinthians 3:17

Then they may come to their senses and escape the Devil's trap, having been captured by him to do his will. 2 Timothy 2:26

Let us lay aside every weight and the sin that so easily ensnares us, and run with endurance the race that lies before us. Hebrews 12:1

You can't live an obedient life and miss an adventure. Following the commands of Christ is not just about behavior. Behavior modification is not an end in itself in the New Testament. Transformation is about knowing the truth and the truth setting you free.