When most people hear the words "Ten Commandments," they often think of stern, heavy rules etched on stone tablets, maybe even a little outdated for today’s fast-paced world. But what if we flipped the script? What if instead of seeing them as restrictive commands, we viewed them as The Ten Freedoms? Yes, you heard that right. Each one of these timeless principles can be seen as a doorway to a life of freedom, peace, and joy!
It’s like Yehovah gave us a life manual, and instead of a list of “Don’ts,” these commandments are more like a list of “Do's” for living your best life. Let’s explore how.
1. Freedom from Idols and False Priorities
“You shall have no other gods before Me” (Exodus 20:3).
At first glance, this might seem like an imposition ... “Only one God?” But think about it. How freeing is it to know you don’t have to chase after everything that promises satisfaction? Life doesn’t have to be a rat race of competing loyalties. When Yehovah is your focus, you’re free from the stress of juggling all the “mini gods” of success, money, status, or whatever is the latest fad.
Freedom is knowing what truly matters.
2. Freedom to Love Truthfully
“You shall not make for yourself an idol” (Exodus 20:4).
No more trying to mould something or someone into a “god” that fits your desires. Creating idols isn’t just carving statues; it’s fashioning beliefs and lifestyles to suit your whims. But true freedom comes in embracing truth, not fantasies. And let’s be honest ... worshipping anything that can break, fade, or disappoint is just exhausting.
Freedom is found in stability.
3. Freedom in Reverence
“You shall not misuse the name of Yehovah your God” (Exodus 20:7).
This isn’t about slipping up and saying something by accident ... it’s about living with reverence. When you treat Yehovah’s Name and authority with respect, you free yourself from a casual, flippant life. You realise you’re living with purpose, connected to something bigger than yourself.
Freedom is living with intentionality.
4. Freedom in Rest
“Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8).
Now, who doesn’t love a good day off? The Sabbath is a gift of freedom wrapped in rest. It’s like Yehovah built a “chill day” into the system. Stop. Breathe. Enjoy life. It’s a reminder that you don’t have to work yourself into the ground to find value.
Freedom is knowing when to stop and rest.
5. Freedom in Honour
“Honour your father and mother” (Exodus 20:12).
This is about more than just obeying parents when you're a kid. It’s about embracing wisdom, respect, and the value of relationships. Honouring those who came before us frees us to live with gratitude and gain from the lessons of those who have already walked the path.
Freedom is found in honouring those who love and care for us.
6. Freedom to Value Life
“You shall not murder” (Exodus 20:13).
Life is precious! By respecting life, you’re free from the anger, hatred, and conflict that lead to violence. When you value the lives of others, you also value your own life and the peace that comes with it.
Freedom is living without the burden of violence or hatred.
7. Freedom in Commitment
“You shall not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14).
This isn’t just about relationships; it’s about integrity and commitment. Honouring the promises you’ve made brings freedom because there’s nothing as liberating as trust and faithfulness. There’s no need to live looking over your shoulder. Freedom is found in loyalty and trust.
8. Freedom in Honesty
“You shall not steal” (Exodus 20:15).
Stealing isn’t just taking what isn’t yours ... it’s a mindset of lack. When you know Yehovah provides for all your needs, you’re free from the desperation that makes people feel they need to take what doesn’t belong to them.
Freedom is knowing you are provided for.
9. Freedom in Truth
“You shall not give false testimony against your neighbour” (Exodus 20:16).
Honesty brings freedom because lies always trap you. One lie leads to another, and suddenly, you’re entangled in your own web. But truth? Truth sets you free. Living truthfully means you don’t have to worry about what you said, what you didn’t say, or whether the truth will come out.
Freedom is living with integrity.
10. Freedom from Envy
“You shall not covet” (Exodus 20:17).
Coveting leads to dissatisfaction. Always wanting what others have traps you in a never-ending cycle of discontentment. When you’re free from coveting, you’re able to celebrate others’ successes and enjoy your own blessings.
Freedom is being content with what you have.
A Pathway to Peace
So there you have it ... the Ten Freedoms. These commandments aren’t a dusty list of “do this” or “don’t do that.” They’re actually an invitation to live your best life, full of freedom, joy, and peace. Each one protects us, nurtures us, and leads us to live in harmony with Yehovah, with others, and with ourselves.
Instead of being limiting, these commandments are the very things that release us from the chains of stress, chaos, and insecurity. When we embrace them, we’re not just ticking off a list of obligations ... we’re stepping into the fullness of life Yehovah intended for us.
So, let’s not think of the Ten Commandments as a burden. Let’s celebrate them as a gift.
The ultimate guide to freedom!
e’Bed Dolous N.D.P.