Some of the most important words in the English language are prepositions. Prepositions play an important role in our sentences because they connect words and as a result our language is more precise and expressive. In today’s devotional, part of what I read is that Jesus freed us from slavery, just as God led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. Since Egypt and slavery represent sin, Jesus freed us from our sins. He took us out of slavery, led us into the presence of the Father and today He continues to be with us through the wilderness that we face in life. He didn’t promise we wouldn’t have wilderness experiences, but He did promise that He would be with us when we face them. So…out, in, through. Has Jesus led you out of slavery? Are you secure in your privilege to go right before God and present yourself and your prayers to Him? Are you going through a wilderness right now? Do you feel the comforting presence of the Holy Spirit, the Advocate that Jesus promised would be with us?

This verse is powerful! Have any of you ever inherited anything? I once inherited a small sum of money from my great aunt. The inheritance was a surprise and I put it away in my savings account as I prayed for what I should use it for. I ended up buying a new bedroom set and then my husband and I took the trip that I had always dreamed of to Spain. I didn’t do anything that I know of to receive this inheritance. My aunt was a distant presence in my life, the one who taught me how to set a table and behave properly once I got there. She had no children, so she divided her estate between her nieces and nephews. The inheritance that we have from God is so much bigger and better than we can imagine. We are His children and His heirs. The riches we inherit on earth can never compare to what He has in store for us in Heaven. From slaves to to an heir is a pretty big leap, but Jesus took us OUT of slavery, led us into freedom and promised to be with us until we stand in the presence of the Father as His heirs. Those who were once enslaved can probably tell you that they don’t want to go back there again. But, as Christians, sometimes, we turn back to our old ways and sin. Jesus doesn’t leave us there in our servitude to slavery; rather, in I John 1:9, He provides a way back to freedom by repenting and asking for forgiveness. God’s plan is for salvation for all: out, in and through. Our victory and ultimate destination depend on the work that He already completed to purchase our redemption. So, I ask you again. Have you been redeemed out of slavery? Are you free to worship in the presence of the Almighty God? Are you walking through the wilderness and not lingering there as you throw yourself a pity party?

Out, In, Through!