FreedomSample

The life of freedom

I have a fresh appreciation for this passage in Galatians. This verse will be familiar to many, but perhaps read it again in a different translation to get fresh perspective today, like this in the New Living Translation (NLT)…

‘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. For the whole law can be summed up in this one command: “Love your neighbour as yourself.” But if you are always biting and devouring one another, watch out! Beware of destroying one another.’

In the last month I welcomed a new puppy into the family. As with all puppies, he’s a joyful bundle of energy. All about exploring and freedom! Meanwhile I’m all about trying to train him in how best to use his freedom so he’s kept safe, is an enjoyable member of the family, and doesn’t negatively impact on the world him.

As I invest hours into puppy training, I’m reminded of the training God (and others) has invested in training me. Helping me fully understanded that freedom often looks like a ‘no’, ‘wait’, ‘drop it’, service or sacrifice, rather than getting or doing everything I want.

Where is God calling you to ‘use your freedom to serve one another in love’, to ‘Love your neighbour as yourself’?

Written by NATALIE BENNETT