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 Galatians 1:1 - Freedom

Freedom means understanding that when we are directed by the Spirit of Christ we are no longer under obligation to the law of Moses.  When we are truly free we will not only know what is right, but we are also able to do it.  Slaves to sin may know right, they may want to do good, but they are not free men.  They are not able, not free to overcome the strong power controlling their minds.  That power is a stubborn and wicked master.  That power is our human nature, our sinful nature.

        The good news of Galatians is that the God of all creation loves freedom and he calls each man and woman to freedom.  He offers it as His free gift.  But we have to accept it and live in it daily.  He calls us away from slavery to our human nature and the strong power over our minds.  Thank God!

Jesus Christ our Master offers each of us the gift of new life.  A life of freedom.  A life that is not hostile to God, but instead knows Jesus as much as we know our mom, dad, or spouse.  He is our Lord and our brother.  He’s our Rescuer and our friend.  A life that is pleasing to God because our minds are controlled by Christ; our actions are then in harmony with His will.

But each day is a battleground.  There is a war for the control of each of our minds and souls.

We can never please God if we are slaves to our sinful nature.  You see, God calls us to freedom and He expects us to stay free.

Galatians is a reminder that now that we are free men we must follow the Spirit of Christ in every part of our lives.

The law of Jesus Christ is far superior to the law of Moses.  Jesus, the Giver, and Rescuer, calls us to a much higher standard.

With the law of Moses people see their sin and they may adjust their behavior, but God wants your heart; He wants all of you.  He loves us and wants us to not only know what good is but to do the things He planned in advance for us to do.  We miss many opportunities, but God willing, not today!  Free men may live the sort of life that will show we are children of God.  Children of God will receive as an inheritance the Kingdom of God.

As a child of God, I crucify my sin on the cross of Jesus Christ.  The passions and desires of my human nature must stay on the cross.  God gives us His will and His desires to do good and put love into action.

Lord Jesus, help us to know your will and your direction as clear as day today.  May we get on the right path right now, and may we never leave it.  Amen.



The grandsons and their new dog, Shep.

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