Freedom with a Purpose
Be encouraged by today’s Scripture reflection and prayer.
Today's Scripture
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.”
Galatians 5:13 (NIV)
Reflection
Lately, I’ve been deep in Hebrews, captivated by the truth of the new and better covenant, the incredible freedom it brings through Christ. But Paul’s words in Galatians are a needed balance. He reminds us: yes, we are free, but that freedom comes with a purpose. We are called to serve others in love.
Paul wasn’t writing to people who didn’t know Christ. He was writing to believers. People who were already walking in their new life but still needed the reminder not to turn their freedom into an excuse to mistreat each other.
That’s a message we need just as much today.
Every time we turn on our phones, join a group chat, or scroll through comments, we face the same challenge: how will we respond when we disagree? What if someone still doesn’t understand the freedom we’ve come to know in Christ?
It’s easy to lash out with truth but forget grace. It's tempting to win the argument but lose the heart. But that’s not how we’re called to live. Freedom in Christ isn’t a weapon. It’s a gift meant to reflect love.
Maybe it’s a tense Bible study discussion, a disagreement with a friend, a post online that pushes all your buttons, or someone who’s still caught in legalism or confusion. We can hold firm to truth while still speaking gently. That’s what love does.
Called to serve others in love means remembering that freedom should never be used to tear down, but to build up.
The world doesn’t need more clever comebacks. It needs more believers who choose love over pride and humility over being right.
Today's Prayer
Lord, thank You for the freedom I have through Christ. Help me not to use that freedom carelessly, but to serve others in love. Remind me to show grace when I disagree, and to speak truth in a way that honors You. Teach me to walk in humility, patience, and love, just like You do with me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Before You Go
Is there someone you've been at odds with lately? Ask God to help you respond with humility and grace.
This is an area where many of us struggle, myself included. Our passion for truth can be strong, but if we’re not careful, we can forget how we’re delivering that truth. I’ve had moments where I was so focused on being right that I lost sight of what love looks like in the conversation.
We are called to serve others in love, not just in action but in how we speak, how we respond, and how we correct. That means checking our tone, examining our hearts, and remembering that our freedom in Christ is never a license to tear someone down. It is a calling to build others up with grace.
Before you hit send, before you speak your mind, or share your opinion, pause and ask, "Am I serving in love right now?"
Freedom is a gift. Let’s use it the way God intended, with hearts full of humility and a desire to reflect Christ.
Yesterday’s DevotionalDid you miss it? Don’t worry—you can still catch up.
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