A Joyful Freedom!

Some seem to go crazy with freedom, not recognizing that freedom is not without limits or that one must consider how their freedom intersects (or overlaps) with the freedom of others. As freedom is exercised, we can REJOICE IN THE PRIVILEGE, but we must still exercise that freedom in responsible ways.

Paul exhorted those at Galatia. . .
“(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)

And Peter urged. . .
“(16) Live as people who are free, NOT USING YOUR FREEDOM AS A COVER-UP FOR EVIL, but LIVING AS SERVANTS OF GOD.” ( 1 Peter 2:16 ESV)

Some view freedom as license to do whatever they want. However, we must never forget that with freedom also comes responsibility. Also, since our Christian freedom was secured by the selfless work or our Lord, why should we consider living selfishly in it? Though both Paul and Peter referred to the blessing of freedom enjoyed by Christians and cautioned against the abuse of that freedom, they also pointed toward living as BONDSERVANTS. According to Paul this is to be our selfless view toward others and Peter noted this as our view toward God. We are always FREE TO SERVE one another as we acknowledge our role as SERVANTS of God. This is a great and powerful freedom that can impact others far more than we might realize.

CHOOSING TO SERVE always makes us feel better than being forced to do so. Let us therefore REJOICE IN THE PRIVILEGE that is ours when we have the means and the opportunity TO SERVE and make life better for those around us. In this way we are SERVING as the hands and feet of the Lord in touching the lives of humanity. Living a life of practical service is something Jesus placed great emphasis on in view of God’s judgment regarding our manner of living. (note Matthew 25:31-46) May our freedom as BONDSERVANTS of God bring us the joy in recognizing our usefulness in God’s scheme of things, knowing how much we have been freely given as we freely give in SERVICE to others.

Have a great day FINDING THE JOY OF UNSELFISH FREEDOM!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Freedom