Today's Scripture
"For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don't use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love." - (Galatians 5:13 NLT)
Thoughts for Today
As we follow Jesus, God has called us to live in freedom. Each of us must choose how we will use that freedom. Today's scripture can help us make right choices.
- Don't use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature.
- Use your freedom to serve one another in love.
First, don't use your freedom as an excuse to sin! In Romans 6:18, the apostle Paul cautions us about this: "Now you are free from your slavery to sin, and you have become slaves to righteous living" (NLT). Jesus has set us free so we can choose righteousness.
He has forgiven us and freed us from bad habits, unhealthy relationships, low self-image, painful memories, and so much more. Why? Not to free us up to make more poor choices. No. He freed us to receive all the blessings he has planned for us. To grow and mature and become all he has designed us to be. To make a positive difference in this world and help others prepare for the next.
Consider this …
Today's scripture also encourages us to follow Jesus' example—to serve one another in love. Jesus said it this way: "Give as freely as you have received!" (Matthew 10:8 NLT)
Use your freedom to help others find freedom. To encourage. To share the love of Jesus through kind actions. To believe the best of them—look beyond their fault to their need.
Tell others what Jesus has done for you! Pray for them. Love them unconditionally.
God has a plan and a purpose for your life. A good plan. He has gifted you and prepared you to make a difference. Use your freedom to accomplish what he has called you to do. As you do, you will find even more freedom—and joy unspeakable!
Father, thank you for the freedom I have found in Jesus. Help me use that freedom to become all you have designed me to be. To do good and not harm. To serve others in love. In Jesus' name . . .
These thoughts were drawn from …
Free to Grow: Overcoming Setbacks and Disappointments by Jimmy Ray Lee, D.Min. The purpose of this group study is to help people overcome disappointments and setbacks that have arrested or are presently hindering their emotional and spiritual development. The group study will help participants understand how to be set free so that they can grow and become all that God has designed them to be. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
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