Psalm 18:17 (NLV) He rescued me from my 
powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for 
me.  

COMMENTARY PEARL

   My cat, Ivy, adopted from a farm, proves 
that although you can take a cat out of the 
country, you can't take the country out of the cat. 
She loves to hunt and is an excellent mouser. 
   One bright spring morning, she stood 
before me in the living room, her stance proud. And 
then she dropped a surprise offering at my feet. 
She'd brought in a bird - an unhurt but terrified 
bird. It immediately flapped its wings and flitted 
to a windowsill. My husband and I formulated a 
plan on how to catch it. Minutes later, we 
carried the frightened creature to our front yard, 
careful to lock Ivy indoors. As we set the tiny bird 
on our porch railing, she stood stock-still, 
then seemed to shake the situation off. A moment 
later, she flew to our maple tree, where she 
perched and stared at us as if to say thank you. As 
we watched, she took flight and was gone. 
   Years ago, Jesus rescued me from the 
dangerous and damaging life choices I'd made. While I 
was frightened and confused, He picked me up and 
held me in the palm of His hand. He carried me 
away from the hurt and the pain and led me to a 
place of safety. I no longer need to hide my face 
in shame or act in fear. 
   Today I rest in the security of His grace 
and fly unrestrained, covered in the limitless 
grace He provides. I am free, indeed. Free as a 
bird. Heidi Gaul 
   Faith Step: Take a few minutes to watch 
birds as they swoop and soar. Consider the ways 
your faith in Jesus has provided you with genuine 
freedom and give thanks. [Mornings With Jesus 2023 
Devotional by Guideposts and Zondervan] 

LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY

John 8:36 - Freedom Like No Other!

http://www.abible.com/devotions/2022/20220519-0918.html 

LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT

https://abible.com/links/