We can build our own prisons because sin can hold us captive. Many people, perhaps some you know some, are stuck in the past. They are stuck in the past because they can’t let go of something. A divorce, betrayal, worry, addiction, regret, unforgiveness toward someone, or another situation holds them captive.
If you find yourself in this situation, the Lord wants to speak to you. Jesus tells us He came to set us free. Luke 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free, 19 and that the time of the Lord’s favor has come.” [1]
What holds you captive? Today the Lord wants to unlock your prison and set you free. Psalm 40:2 He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire. He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along. “[2] No matter what pit we may find ourselves in, as we humble ourselves and cry out to the Lord in repentance, He forgives us and lifts us up!
Simon Was Held Captive to Sin
Simon, the sorcerer, had heard the good news of Jesus proclaimed by Philip but thought he could purchase the Holy Spirit. Peter discerned that Simon had severe issues preventing him from giving his life to Jesus. When you give your life to Jesus, the Holy Spirit is free and cannot be bought at any price.
Acts 8:19 “Let me have this power, too,” Simon exclaimed, “so that when I lay my hands on people, they will receive the Holy Spirit!” 20 But Peter replied, “May your money be destroyed with you for thinking God’s gift can be bought! 21 You can have no part in this, for your heart is not right with God. 22 Repent of your wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive your evil thoughts, 23 for I can see that you are full of bitter jealousy and are held captive by sin.” [3]
The Bible does not tell us if Simon repented, but the Lord set him free if he did. If the Lord calls you to repent of your sins, humble yourself and take His hand. He is eager to forgive, love, and forget what you have done as we come to him in true repentance. He is a loving Father who loves you more than you know.
Prayer to Release Anger, Resentment, and Bitterness
God, hear me and answer me. You know I am troubled by thoughts and feelings of anger, resentment, and bitterness. You also know why. And You know how deep the hurt goes and how long I have lived with it. But I don’t want to live with it any longer. I don’t want to be angry, resentful, and bitter. With Your help, I release my anger into Your hands. I surrender my resentment. I let go of my bitterness. Help me to keep letting go and release these toxic emotions as often as they try to return.[4] Amen.
To learn how sin can hold us captive, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/empowered-near
[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.
[4] https://guideposts.org/prayer/inspirational-prayers/7-prayers-of-release/