Sunday, July 4, 2021

Liberty In The Lord

Liberty in the Lord is truly lasting freedom. Outside of submission to God Almighty, we become a discontent, miserable slave to the almighty dollar, to people, to places and to things. To be a servant of Christ is a much greater glory than the greatest monarch on earth—King of Kings and Lord of Lords—He reigns! The desire of our Creator and Savior is not an onerous burden but a light yoke of love. We are children and friends of the Most High, free to serve, free to love and free to obey. No more chained to the culture or paralyzed by politics, but with the interdependence of eagle’s wings and wind, we soar by faith with the uplifting current of the Holy Spirit. Paul describes himself as a prisoner for the Lord—free but under God’s authority. “As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace". Ephesians 4:1-3 Freedom is only fulfilling if experienced within the rules of love. God gives his children guidelines to grow their capacity to love and to protect them from unwise decisions, even sinful tendencies. Treat your neighbor as you would want to be treated. Avoid lies by embracing the truth. Honor your parents, especially when they have a deficiency of genuine honor. Battle covetousness and idolatry with gratitude and generosity. Replace selfish love with authentic love. Celebrate the diversity of the body of Christ. Like a vast orchestra everyone plays a different instrument producing a beautiful sound: some loud, some soft, some soothing, some vibrant movements to activate melodious works. God’s rules help us resist rebellion and cherish our freedoms. Submission to Christ positions us to be loved by Christ and to love others like Christ.