ABC's

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” (Galatians 5:1)

As the Fourth of July came and went, we all speak and think about freedom.  What is freedom exactly?  What rights do citizens receive through freedom?  Some include right to bear arms, to vote, serve our country, marry whomever you choose and work wherever you please.  Freedoms concern our speech, religion, dress and to choose number of kids you bear.  Our country provides countless freedoms and rights.  We should be content, right?  No chains hold us down or limit movements in our days.  Slavery no longer exists.  The world is ours and we can say, do, act and be whomever we choose; happiness, right?

I’m afraid not.  We took freedom and swung the pendulum to the complete other side. . .reason why crime exists, disrespect appears, aggressive driving occurs, verbal/physical abuse towards another continues daily, etc.  Depression, anxiety, stress, fear and anger reside in the hearts of many.  Why?  Sin captures our lives and we become slave to it.  Physical slavery went away, but spiritual slavery increased.  Our freedoms here on earth mean nothing if we do not take hold of the one freedom available to each of us.  Acknowledge the sin which consumes and suffocates, Believe there is a freedom available, Confess and repent. . .begin a journey to true freedom which lasts for eternity.  Start a new life by learning the ABC’s of freedom.  God provides countless freedoms and rights.  To gain these each and every day, simply reach up to Him and follow His plan for the day.  Trust Him with each moment, deny self and take up your cross daily!  Slavery to sin no longer exists and we see this world is His.  He holds the plans for the world and already won the battle for us.  Stand firm in His Word and keep sin far from your life.  Be thankful for the freedoms existing this side of Heaven and balance the pendulum.  Respect the laws, people in charge and those fighting for our country.  But, ultimately turn to God for guidance, Truth and the example of how to live here.

ALLOW HIM TO. . .  “Search me, God, and know my heart;

    test me and know my anxious thoughts.

See if there is any offensive way in me,

    and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalm 139:23-24)

PROVIDE EXAMPLE. . .“Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.  Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.  And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:5-7)

CONTINUE LEARNING. . .“let the wise listen and add to their learning,

    and let the discerning get guidance—

for understanding proverbs and parables,

    the sayings and riddles of the wise.

The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge,

    but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Proverbs 1:5-7)

RECRUIT OTHERS. . .Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:19-20)

Keep praying harder than the devil can work.

Sheree Craig