21 February 2025_IGNITE YOUR DAY: From Chains to Wings – Rising in Freedom

IGNITE YOUR DAY: From Chains to Wings – Rising in Freedom

Key Text: John 8:36
"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."

From Chains to Wings – Rising in Freedom
Today’s theme is From Chains to Wings – Rising in Freedom. Our key verse is John 8:36:
"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."

Life has a way of chaining us—whether through past hurts, unforgiveness, guilt, or fear. These chains hold us back from experiencing the fullness of God’s plan. Yet Jesus said, “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly” (John 10:10). He came to set us free!

When Jesus declared, “The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me... He has sent Me to proclaim freedom for the captives” (Luke 4:18), He was proclaiming our liberation. Anyone who embraces Him is truly set free.

However, many people don’t realize that the bitterness they hold, the unforgiveness they carry, is their own prison. Even after Jesus has forgiven them, they struggle to forgive themselves and move forward.

The Caged Bird Syndrome
Imagine a bird that has been in a cage for years, confined to the same small space every day. When the door is finally opened, the bird hesitates to fly because captivity has become its comfort zone.

Many believers live the same way—free in Christ, yet hesitant to embrace their freedom fully.

Yesterday, in our executive session, we discussed a similar concept. Dr. Chidi shared a story of a monkey that refused to let go of a banana, unknowingly sacrificing its freedom. Many of us do the same—we cling to past hurts, fears, and guilt, forfeiting the freedom Christ has already given us.

This morning, God is calling us to spread our wings and rise in the direction of His grace.

How to Rise in Freedom
1️⃣ Recognize the Chains Holding You Back
Before you can rise, you must identify what is weighing you down.

Is it unforgiveness? Holding onto grudges is like carrying a heavy burden. Jesus forgave even while He was being crucified.
Is it guilt and shame? Perhaps you are struggling with past mistakes, haunted by regret. But Psalm 103:12 reminds us, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us.” If God has forgiven you, don’t imprison yourself in guilt.
Is it fear? Fear of failure, rejection, or the unknown can keep you grounded when God is calling you to soar.
Is it past trauma? Pain from the past can control your present unless you allow Christ to heal you.
Recognizing these chains is the first step toward freedom.

2️⃣ Focus on Christ – The Chain Breaker
Once you’ve identified your chains, shift your focus to Jesus, who alone has the power to break them.

Jesus forgives and forgets. Unlike people, He does not hold our past against us. When He forgives, He wipes the slate clean.
He invites us to bring our burdens to Him. “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28).
He empowers us to let go. By embracing His love, we can release the chains that hold us back and step into the freedom He offers.
Conclusion:
This morning, God is calling us to rise—from chains to wings, from bondage to freedom.

🔹 What chains are you still holding onto?
🔹 What is keeping you from embracing your freedom in Christ?

Today, let us step out of the cage and into the boundless sky of His grace. Spread your wings and soar!

Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the freedom You have given us through Christ. Help us recognize and release the chains that hold us back. Give us the courage to embrace the abundant life You have prepared for us. May we rise in Your grace and walk in the fullness of Your freedom. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Have a blessed and victorious day