Relationships Require Freedom

“Freedom is a prerequisite for a true relationship. If a man forces relations with his wife he is committing rape, not love.” Rick Joyner¹

If freedom is not in operation then something else is and it isn’t love. It is control, also called intimidation and manipulation. Love and control cannot be in operation at the same time. It is either one or the other. (It’s because control brings fear and love and fear and cannot co-exist in the same space.)

I touched on this subject of freedom vs. control as it relates to submission in a previous post. Check it out here: http://www.cherylcope.com/the-christian-s-word

This principle applies to ALL relationships. It also applies to our relationship with God. God does not violate our free will. He does give us freedom in all things. He gives us the freedom to choose even if it hurts us or hurts others or goes against His purposes. He always operates out of true love. There is never any control, manipulation or intimidation in God’s dealings with His people. If you are feeling any of those things, then it is either from a human acting wrongly against you or it is from an evil spirit.

“Manipulation, intimidation and control are not from the Spirit of Truth, but are evil spirits that drive men from the truth and seek to bind them in darkness.” Rick Joyner²

Freedom and love work together and God desires those for you in all of your relationships. He wants you to have them given to you and he wants you to give them out to others. In which relationships in your life is there room for improvement for more freedom and love? Please share in the comment section below.

Notes : 1- The World Aflame: The Welsh Revival Lessons for Our Times
by Rick Joyner page 126

2- The World Aflame by Rick Joyner page 126-127.

Join the conversation. Share your ideas or questions in the comment form below.

Other blog posts you may like:

The Christian “S” Word

Christian Submission, Authority and Headship

Do you have a relationship with God or something else?

Comments

Relationships Require Freedom — 2 Comments

Amy Hagerup on October 2, 2013 at 5:39 pm said:

I’d like to add guilt to your list there of “control, manipulation or intimidation.” I often have said that the Holy Spirit’s conviction is restoring, not condemning. Control, manipulations and intimidation seem to fit right in there with someone making you feel guilty about something they want you to do or not do. This got me to thinking on that. Thanks, Cheryl. Blessings, Amy

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- Cheryl Cope on October 3, 2013 at 3:12 pm said:
  
  Yes, I agree, guilt is in there too.
  
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