Freedom's Framework!

Tomorrow in our country is celebrated as Independence Day. It is a day commemorating the gaining of official independence from the rule of England in 1776. However, freedom independent from guidelines, laws, regulations, and rules opens the door for chaos. Though freedom can be cherished and enjoyed it must still be viewed within LIMITATIONS.

Paul exhorted…
“(13) For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only DO NOT USE YOUR FREEDOM AS AN OPPORTUNITY FOR THE FLESH, but through love serve one another.
(14) For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” ( Galatians 5:13-14 ESV)

Just because the blood of Jesus has the power to cleanse us should not be taken as freedom to do whatever we want and let His blood deal with it.
(note Romans 6:1-2, 15-18) Though the grace of God is powerful and sufficient for our salvation it is not to be viewed as “license” ( Jude 4
NIV) to sin. Such living takes grace for granted and reveals a lack of appreciation for what has been made possible through the sacrifice of Christ. The grace of God is intended to train us to “renounce” (ESV) or “say ‘NO’” (NIV) to ungodliness and to worldly passions. ( Titus 2:11-12)

Though we have the freedom to choose, we must make our choices with the warning of the Hebrew writer in mind.
“(26) For IF WE GO ON SINNING DELIBERATELY after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there NO LONGER REMAINS A SACRIFICE FOR SINS, (27) but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries.” ( Hebrews 10:26-27 ESV)

With freedom comes responsibility; responsibility to make wise choices and exercise restraint and self-control. In this country we can best enjoy our freedoms within the CONSTRAINTS of the U.S. Constitution as well as federal, state, and local laws. As Christians, we also can enjoy our freedoms within the LIMITATIONS of God’s commands. All He has provided through the teaching of His Word is for our greatest benefit. May we genuinely appreciate the freedom and the framework He has provided for living in it.

Have a great day GUIDED BY GOD’S GRACE!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Freedom