"Brief Devotions For Busy Lives" by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson: Galatians 5:1

 May 29

"For freedom Christ has set us free; stand fast therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery." -Galatians 5:1 (RSV)

Freedom is an incredible possession. Sometimes we may take it for granted until it is lost either by war, dictatorship, or invasion of our country by hostile powers. The apostle Paul knew well the value of freedom when he wrote his letter to the Galatians. As a Roman citizen Paul was free to travel as he wished and was not subject to the whims and prejudice of local courts. He had the right to appeal directly to the emperor himself for justice. Paul also understood well the freedom Christ can give us from sin and death. As a former Pharisee, he knew the Jewish laws intimately and obeyed them scrupulously but was still bound to legalism and sin until his encounter with the resurrected Christ on the Road to Damascus. It was only then Paul was delivered from his enslavement to legalism and sin by the love and forgiveness Jesus personally offered him.

Christ died to set all of us free from sin and long lists of laws and regulations. But he did not free us to do whatever we want since that leads back into slavery to harmful behaviors. Rather we are now free to do what was impossible before and live without being trapped in the slavery of legalism, destructive actions, and harmful habits. Those who appeal to "freedom" so they can have their own way or indulge selfish desires are falling back into sin. But it is also wrong to put legalistic demands on Christians. We must stand against those who would enslave us with rules, methods, or special conditions for being saved or growing in Christ. A little boy was once overheard praying: “Lord, if you can’t make me a better boy, don’t worry about it. I’m having a real good time like I am.” This little boy understood God's Grace perfectly and knew that God's love is with us always caring for you just as you are, wherever you are! God loves you enough to give you your freedom today and every day. Use it well!

Prayer: Jesus, Thank you for dying for my freedom! Amen. 

Meditation For The Day: Jesus has set you free indeed!

Brief Devotions For Busy Lives: Daily Spring Renewal Paperback – February 21, 2017, by Rev. Dr. Mary Johnson (Author)