Read Colossians 2

“So let no one judge you in food or in drink, or regarding a festival or a new moon or sabbaths, which are a shadow of things to come, but the substance is of Christ.” — Colossians 2:16–17

The shadow is a place where you hide. It’s a place where the fear of man reigns and the freedom of God ceases. It’s a place where many attempt to appear religious and righteous, but in reality they are burdened and overwhelmed. It’s a place of condemnation and insecurity — always feeling like what you do is met with the scrutiny of God’s mighty hand. Sadly, the shadow is a place where many of God’s children are trapped and in bondage.

The shadow which Paul speaks of is called legalism, and it is a large prison cell holding too many in the church. But the good news is that the cell is not locked. In fact, the prison doors have been flung open! Those who are in the shadow of legalism choose to be there.

Christian, it is time to get out of the shadow! — and run into the light of Christ!

“But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;” (1 Peter 2:9)

It's worth observing that all of the Book of Colossians is about what has been accomplished by the Lord Jesus Christ. We did nothing. All that we have is a gift of God. You have been resurrected, exonerated, and liberated! The handwriting of requirements against us has been nailed to the cross!

“[Christ has] wiped out the handwriting of requirements that was against us, which was contrary to us. And He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.” (Colossians 2:14)

Every law which seeks to bind up the Christian, whether self-imposed or corporately imposed, is nothing but a shadow. Christ is the substance, and He calls us out of that shadow and into His arms where there is rest, peace, and new life.

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28–30)

Beloved, it is no longer law, but Jesus! It is no longer observances, but Jesus! It is no longer religion, but Jesus! It is no longer rituals, but Jesus! He has set us free, for He is our All in all and the fulfillment of all our righteousness.

May I ask: Are you living in the light of Christ’s freedom and rest, or in the shadow of self-imposed legalism?

Dear friend, it is time to come out. It’s time to let go of those laws you think you need to fulfill to please God. He is already pleased with you in Christ. Don’t let the shadow rob you anymore of all that Christ offers freely by His love and grace.

“Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage.” (Galatians 5:1)

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