“Set me from my prison, that I may praise your name! (Ps.142:7)
Jesus, great Lord and Liberator, when King David prayed for freedom from his prison, he wasn’t behind iron bars, he was hiding in a cave. He felt pursued, trapped, and alone. He also knew where to look for grace and help—and that was to you. I begin today doing the same.
You’ve already set me free from many imprisonments, Jesus: The fear of dying, for you robbed the grave of its victory. Hallelujah! The fear of final judgment, for you were condemned in my place upon the cross. The tyranny of false gospels, for it is your righteousness that has saved me. Anxiety about the future, because you are ruler of the kings of the earth and sovereign over every cricket, crisis, and crucible. Glory!
When I consider these liberties, why would I doubt your ability or willingness to set me free from other chains and captivities? Here are a few I’m aware of, Jesus. Free me from my vain regrets—haunting memories and lingering shame about things I’ve done or didn’t do.
Break the chains of my insecurities. I still feel ill-equipped and incompetent in important areas of life—mostly relational. Be big in my life, Jesus, that people may assume the proper size.
Free and heal me from the trauma of old wounds. I have been a victim of abuse, but that’s not my identity. Some things will only be fully healed at your second coming. Let me be okay with that, even as I trust you to use my story and pain for the benefit of others.
Free me to be more present, childlike, and laugh more, Jesus—to be 10 times more curious than critical of others. As King David said, the more freedom you give me, the more fully I will seek to praise your name. So Very Amen.
