Dear friend, Galatians 5:13 says, “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.”
Paul advises against using our freedom to lead a sinful life but instead encourages us to use our freedom to serve one another with love. In Galatians 4:9, Paul questions why one would want to return to being enslaved by the weak and useless spiritual principles of the world once they have come to know God. He warns against reverting to a sinful life after coming to know God.
Today, people enjoy freedom of speech and freedom of religion, and they often believe that they can do anything they want, anything they enjoy very much. However, it is not right to return to a sinful life after knowing God. The Bible clearly states in I Peter 2:16, “You are free, yet you are God's slaves.” Therefore, we should not use our freedom as an excuse to do evil. The Bible also states, “You are God's slaves,” which means that while we need not be like slaves in the world, God does give us the freedom to enjoy everything the Lord has provided. This verse signifies a reverential fear of God. Although God gives us everything in this world to enjoy, we must submit ourselves to God, resist the devil, and then he will flee from us. As a result, we will no longer face temptation from the devil.
I want to share a testimony about Sis. Aadhilakshmi. Her husband used to run a business, and they have four children - two daughters and two sons. Unfortunately, her husband struggled with alcohol addiction and didn't take care of the family, leaving her to manage both the business and their children. During this difficult time, her daughter, who was studying in 12th grade, had anxiety issues and was very scared. It was then that her son suggested they visit the Prayer Tower in Vellore and seek help. The prayer warriors at the Prayer Tower prayed for them, and they learned about the Family Blessing Plan, deciding to enroll the entire family in it. Gradually, the Lord started to bless their family, including meeting their educational needs. Through the prayers of the intercessors, her husband was completely freed from his alcohol addiction. Sis. Aadhilakshmi wrote to us and thanked God for delivering her husband, and today they are leading a joyous life.
Dear friend, you may also be going through addiction or anxiety issues. But here's the good news! The Lord can set you free and bring His rich blessings into your life. So, ask God to deliver you today. Don't assume that you have the freedom to enjoy the world. Submit yourself to the Lord, and He will deliver you from all your problems, addictions, fears, or anxiety. Always remember, the Lord is all-powerful!
PRAYER:
Dear Lord, thank You for the freedom I have in You and for the sacrifice You made for me on the cross, enabling me to live a life free from the bondage of sin, curse, or any kind of oppression. I submit myself to You and pray that You will help me overcome any temptation or struggle in my life, whether it's fear, doubt, or worry. I trust that You will help me overcome these obstacles and grant me the strength to resist the devil and stand firm in You. Help me make choices that honour You and reflect Your love to those around me. Let my words and actions honour You and inspire others to seek after the freedom that only You can provide. I know that You are with me every step of the way and leading me toward a life of true freedom. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.