I am totally free! No condemnation in Jesus! Its all about Grace:
“So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law.” Galatians 5:1
Yet, if I live freely, doing whatever feels good to me… with no regard for those around me… I ruin my freedom:
“It is absolutely clear that God has called you to a free life. Just make sure that you don’t use this freedom as an excuse to do whatever you want to do and destroy your freedom.” Galatians 5:13
So, how do I enjoy my free life without rules and yet not create a path of destruction behind me:
“… use your freedom to serve one another in LOVE; that’s how freedom grows. For everything we know about God’s Word is summed up in a single sentence: LOVE others as you LOVE yourself. That’s an act of true freedom.” Galatians 5:14
Therefore, we’re to live freely yet under constraint – the only constraint being LOVE! Ask yourself: is this selfish? Does this bring joy, peace? Am I showing patience? Is this kind? Is it good? Is it faithful? How about gentle? Am I being self-control?
“…those who belong to Christ Jesus have killed the sinful, selfish nature along with its passions and appetites.” Galatians 5:24
How different my freedom looks when it’s led by God’s Spirit. It’s not all about me:
“If we claim to live by the Holy Spirit, we must also walk by the Spirit [with personal integrity, godly character, and moral courage] our conduct empowered by the Holy Spirit” Galatians 5:25
What a challenge for any new year!
ForGlorySake! –Anna
