Locked Up

Deceit, lies, misunderstandings, and harsh words are just a few things that can separate family and friends. Offenses cause hurt feelings, and bars go up: "A brother offended is harder to be won than a strong city, and their contentions are like the bars of a castle" (Proverbs 18:19).

Jacob tricked his twin brother Esau into selling him his birthright for a meal when he was hungry. Esau's poor decision kindled a fire that ruled his life, imprisoning himself with bars of anger and unforgiveness toward his sibling. Rebekah's deceptive plan to deceive Isaac and Esau was successful but not without a tremendous cost; she would die without seeing her beloved Jacob again. Estrangement separated the brothers for many years until Jacob took the first step towards reconciliation. Esau unlocked his self-made captivity, opened his barred life, and embraced his brother; their families reunited. But years were wasted—lost.

Your life behind bars may not be due to deceit, lies, or harsh words but feelings of unworthiness to receive forgiveness for a past discrepancy. Or to finally let that "thing" go that has gnawed away at your insides. Child of God, look down at your hands; you hold the key to your prison's door. Today is a new day—by God's grace, and with His help, it can be your day of release. Surrender to the Keeper of your soul. God wants to set you free so that you can live in freedom.