DISCUSSION:
“It was for freedom that Christ set us free; therefore keep standing firm and do not be subject again to a yoke of slavery. . . . For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another.” Galatians 5.1, 13-15
Paul was astonished at how quickly the Galatian believers were giving up on the gospel he had brought. And it wasn’t for an easier freedom; people were going back to being burdened with rules and rituals. Paul’s message: the freedom bought by Christ’s blood must not be forsaken so readily. It’s too precious! It’s a freedom designed to lead to showing Christ’s love to others by humbly serving in whatever ways we are gifted.
Living as people who are freed in Christ, we’re called to walk the “narrow road,” avoiding the ditches of legalism on one side and lawlessness on the other. Either ditch leads us astray. Freed from sin’s yoke, we’re free to serve—showing Christ’s love! And in doing so, we humbly honor God for the precious freedom we have in Christ.
When we serve one another in love, we’re following Christ’s example and obeying his command (John 13:34). This can include a willingness to literally go the extra mile and take someone to an appointment. Or to mentor a teenager or teach Sunday school. Or to serve in another way we are gifted. Fueled by grace, our freedom leads to serving others gracefully. Led by God’s Spirit, we’ll find ways to express our freedom by being a blessing. And in doing so, we too are blessed!
Seek to be humble today and lift up those who are around you through your faith.