The freedom of the human will “is” a reality… but it is always relative to the domain in which the human subject resides. Thus a sinful human can only choose from amongst a variety of sinful options, for these are the only ones his dominus (the devil) offers. This is why regeneration (the enlightening and animating work of the Holy Spirit) must precede faith in Jesus. (Col 1:13; 2 Cor 4:6; Isa 9:2; Gen 1:3)

You cannot see a light until it has shone. You cannot follow a king of an unknown kingdom. The light must appear to you. You must be brought into the kingdom. None of these are in your control; hence the Reformed denial of free will, as popularly understood.

We are not to sit around passively, however, for we know that for the past 2000 years the news has spread far and wide that ‘Aslan is on the move’. This light may not have appeared yet to you but it is likely you know someone who has seen it or at least know a place where to find people who have – for this light appears in the gospel. Do not wallow in despair. Heed the call of Isaiah 9:2. Come and sit at the feet of Jesus and hear the gospel, that your will may be truly set free to follow the king.

For God, who said, “Let light shine out of darkness,” has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. (2 Cor 4:6)