The Gate to Freedom - Wholly Loved - August 11

“I am the gate; whoever enters through Me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture.” John 10:9

What do you want? Rest? Peace of mind? Emotional healing? Everyone needs liberation from something, so we inevitably look for a path to freedom. Unfortunately, we often take a road that leads to bondage.

I was depressed and discouraged a few years ago. I wanted to feel something other than sadness, so I found something that offered relief. Wine. At first I drank one glass every so often. But it felt good to numb my pain. I bought into the idea that wine could ease my suffering, when in fact it was adding to it.

By the grace of God, over time I listened to the Holy Spirit calling me to stop finding temporary solutions and instead lean into the permanent Healer. But God has opened my eyes to the many women like me who are pushing their hurts through the wrong coping strategies.

Today’s verse rings true when I think of my past. Jesus is the only gate that can lead us to true pasture. As we enter into His love and grace we find freedom. We’re able to come and go out of hardships and hurts still finding our pasture. For me that pasture is joy and healing. God continues to mend, strengthen, and provide for me as I let each situation come in and out of His wisdom. What temporary gates are you using instead of Jesus? Close them today and walk into freedom!

Andrea Chatelain’s mission is to meet women in their struggles and love them forward with God’s truth. She's part of the Wholly Loved Ministries team, is a Midwest mom of three, faith and family writer, and college English instructor to immigrants and refugees. It’s her joy to lead Bible studies in her neighborhood, church, and community because she believes Jesus transforms lives when His people boldly seek Him. Her writing reflects her love for Jesus and heart for fellow believers. Connect with Andrea more online at www.afruitfulwoman.com.

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