Free Indeed?

​Most believers in Christ aren't "free indeed". 

And I'm not talking in regards to salvation. I'm talking in every other area of a Christian's life. Whether it's mental, spiritual, financial, or something else... the majority of people do not live "free indeed", and it's all because of one word - "condemnation". A life of peace and freedom is only attainable when we base our relationship with the Lord off of Him and not our performance. We must be careful not to confuse salvation (God's free gift of eternal life) with sanctification (becoming more like Christ) or condemnation (a constant state of remorse) and conviction (correction from the Father). 

Hebrews 12:6 says that God only chastises (corrects/convicts) those that He loves. If you are a child of God, conviction is not only a vital part of your walk in becoming more like Christ (sanctification)... it's tangible proof of your salvation. Conviction is a "Fed-Ex" straight from Heaven telling your soul that something isn't quite right between you and God and it needs some attention. Conviction is not God getting mad at you. Conviction is not God trying to drown you in an ocean of your worst mistakes. It is simply your loving Father, looking at the mess you have made, saying "Let's fix this, together". 

Condemnation is one of Satan's greatest tools. And most of the time, we allow him full opportnity to use it against us. Condemnation is a prison. It will keep you enslaved to your past. It will leave you tormented, day and night, over things you've done and regret, including things Christ has already forgiven and forgotten. Romans 8 tells us there is no condemnation to those who are children of God - none. When we receive Christ as Savior, we step from condemnation into full atonement... We don't have to (and should never) base our journey with Christ off of our performance. In other words? It's not what we do - it's what He has done. 
Father, 

Help us to not walk in "performance" but to accept the grace you have freely given to us through your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to heed your convicting power and reject any thought of condemnation. May we become more like you, in all we say and do - and live a life of total joy and peace. In Jesus' name, AMEN.