Freedom's Blessing!

Freedom. People like it. Freedom to do and go and say what they want. However, in the exercise of freedom we must consider how that freedom overlaps with the freedom of others. Is it possible for my freedom to collide with your freedom? Yes! This is most definitely true when we choose to drive opposite directions on the same side of the road! Some people view liberty or freedom as license to do anything they desire. However, when a driver's license gives us the freedom of driving where we want to go, we still must follow the rules of the road. If we don't, we endanger our own life and the life of others. Therefore, with freedom comes responsibility to EXERCISE IT WISELY. Our freedom to choose then places us under the obligation to CHOOSE RIGHTLY because freedom without restraint is no blessing.

To the Galatians Paul wrote. . .
"(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." ( Galatians 5:13 ESV)

Peter similarly exhorted. . .
"(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)

Whatever overcomes a person enslaves them. ( 2 Peter 2:19) What (or who) has control of our life? Living according to the flesh is bondage. It is slavery. On the other hand, the freedom we have in Christ is freedom from guilt and sin because of the power of His blood. We are also no longer under the yoke of the old law because we presently live under the Lordship of Christ. However, note another freedom that is ours in Christ that was mentioned by both Paul and Peter! We have the freedom TO SERVE! That is always our choice and love for Christ and others is what will help our freedom remain a blessing to ourselves and others. Freedom without love will generally take us the way of license because our focus will be on our own interests. Freedom with love will cause us to consider others and compel us to serve in the likeness of our Lord. May such blessing be associated with the manner in which we live our daily lives.

Have a great day WITH THE FREEDOM TO THRIVE IN THE SPIRIT OF CHRIST!
Carl

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