Six Ways to Escape from Prison

“Wow…that was a long day,” hubby said when I told him how my Saturday was.

“No, it wasn’t long,” I said. “It was lovely.”

Although I got home close to midnight, it was one of the best days in a long time. Early that morning I hopped in my son’s truck and we headed to volunteer at the Access Life yearly event. Lots of families with severely disabled children and adults relished in fun activities: kayaking, boat riding, face painting and crafts. I sat at the craft table making Gospel bracelets. Had a ball!

Then rushed home, grabbed half a sandwich, changed clothes and a friend picked me up. We headed to a women’s prison where I spoke, hoping to inspire them.

Surprises of surprises, they inspired me instead.

As I listened to them, and observed their faith, they demonstrated how to escape the prison of hopelessness.

1. First, you become vulnerable and open to receive. (Those ladies soaked in God’s message and responded with eagerness to learn more.)

2. You believe without pretense. No masks to cover your pain. No false airs, just genuine repentance.

3. Persevere even when locked within walls of adversity.

4. Keep hope alive even when unable to escape the bars of injustice.

5. Grab God’s hand to escape gloom and self-pity.

6. Welcome laughter and joy even when looking through the bars of difficulties.

God knows when He says we learn from one another. We draw from each other’s strengths. And receive lessons from those we never expect. “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another” (Proverbs 27:17).

Father, I confess, my attitude needs sharpening to be humble enough to keep on learning. To be willing to receive lessons in unexpected places. Thank you for the people you place in my life who found freedom. In Jesus’ name, amen.

• What holds you prisoner?
• What keeps you from gaining emotional freedom?
• When will you look beyond bars of discouragement to the freedom of God’s joy?

Janet

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Originally posted on Janet Perez Eckles.