Freedom!

Though freedom is cherished, it can be a funny thing. Freedom can be difficult for the immature to handle. It can also be a flaunted thing by those who are puffed up with knowledge. Paul pointed out that knowledge can puff up while LOVE builds up. ( 1 Corinthians 8:1) Freedom can also be taken to the extremes of either license on one hand or strict legalism on the other. Although freedom is meant to be appreciated and enjoyed, it must be considered beyond the realm of merely ourselves. Someone has stated, “It’s not the liberty we have, but the liberty we take, which causes most of the trouble.” [source: “1600 Squibs and Quips”, compiled by E. C. McKenzie]

Paul, writing to the church at Galatia, reminded these brethren of the freedom they had in Christ. Some had come in among them and tried to bind the Old Law on them and Paul warned against allowing themselves to become enslaved to it. ( Galatians 5:1) However, Paul also warned against the exercise of freedom without due CONSIDERATION OF OTHERS.

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.” (15) But if you bite and devour one another, watch out that you are not consumed by one another.” ( Galatians 5:13-15 ESV)

Perhaps the best way to keep our freedom (or liberty) in Christ in perspective is to maintain a sincere love for God and His Will as well as a genuine LOVE FOR OTHERS that will cause us to encourage and build them up in the faith. In focusing on serving God and others we will find a marvelous aid in keeping self in perspective as well.

Have a great day ENJOYING THE FREEDOM OF SERVICE!
Carl

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