Wednesday, April 26, 2023

Whenever I see someone wearing a Veteran of a Foreign War cap, I take the opportunity to shake their hand and thank them for fighting for my freedom. It blows my mind to think that someone who doesn't know me, really never even knew I existed, fought for my freedom. Why wouldn't I be thankful for that person? After all, they served and fought not only for me but for everyone I know and love. They served so that we all don’t have to.

Here on earth, we learn that freedom isn't always free, but the freedom God offers each one of us is ours if we want it. It’s a different type of freedom, though. God’s freedom allows us to live apart from sin. We don't have to fight for it—we couldn’t, even if we tried! Only Jesus was capable. The greatest gift we have ever been given from God is Jesus. He came and defeated death for us, so we don't have to … ever. 

Jesus paid the debt we all owe so that we can be free—free from death, sin, and anything else that enslaves us. As we live in Christ, we are released from the chains of the world and freed to be all that God created us to be. But God also gave us free will to choose our own pursuits. Instead of using this freedom as an excuse to do whatever we want, the apostle Paul reminds us to use it to bless others. 

Galatians 5:13
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.

In order to live the life God intended for us, we need to accept his gift of salvation and live from his truth. Part of this process is discovering our God-given gifts and living out our purpose to serve others in love. 

1 Corinthians 12:7
A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other.

Having the freedom to love others and serve is such a privilege. Prior to accepting Jesus into my life, I never had the urge to serve anyone except my own kids and family. But after I began my faith journey, accepted the freedom that God was offering me, and learned my purpose, I chose to start serving everyone I could. Because I want everyone to experience the freedom I have found.

Are you serving Jesus by lovingly serving others?  

Questions: 
Was it difficult for you to find your freedom?

How do you use your freedom? Do you use it to serve yourself or others? 

Next Steps:
Attend GrowthTrack and learn how to find freedom and discover your purpose to help serve others. Thank someone personally for the way they used their freedom for you. Join a Freedom Group.

Prayer:
God, thank you for the men and women who served our country and fought to protect the freedoms we have here. Thank you for giving all your children a loving heart and guiding us to find a way to serve you by serving others. I love the life I have with you, and I hope that I can always find a way to make someone's day just a little better. I will do it in your name and with your strength. All glory is yours! In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.

Series Theme Verses:

Philippians 2:13
For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him.

Hebrews 11:4
It was by faith that Abel brought a more acceptable offering to God than Cain did. Abel’s offering gave evidence that he was a righteous man, and God showed his approval of his gifts. Although Abel is long dead, he still speaks to us by his example of faith.