Oh, FreedomSample

Slaves had many reasons to feel hopeless, yet they persevered in hope for freedom. Despite enduring horrid mental and physical abuse, family members being sold and stripped of all identity, slaves believed God had a better plan for them. The American Negro spiritual “We Are Climbing Jacob’s Ladder” portrays their belief that, as they pressed forward, freedom would come, either on earth or in heaven.

Slaves couldn’t talk while working in the field, so they would encourage one another through singing. As they sang this famous spiritual, they believed God’s promise to Jacob extended to a promise of their freedom. God promised Jacob, “I am with you and will watch over you . . . I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you.” (Genesis 28:15). The symbolic ladder inspired the slaves to keep climbing, believing in God as they journeyed through trials of life. And they knew the true freedom that began within their souls through their relationship with Him.

The lyrics—“every rounds goes higher and higher”—emphasize spiritual growth through a personal relationship with Jesus, sharing Jesus with others, and serving others (Galatians 5:13). The slaves experienced inward freedom and could wholeheartedly sing the last stanza of this song, “Rise, shine, give God the glory.” We glorify God as we press forward towards the goal of knowing Christ and making Him known to others (Philippians 3:10). -Roslyn Yilpet

Prayer: Father, give me freedom from within, that I may keep pressing towards the goal of knowing Christ more and making Him known to others.