Key Text: Galatians 5:13 KJV - For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

When God liberates a man from the bondage of sin and Satan, He does so for the man to serve Him in that liberty. We must be careful not to misuse the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free, that we may not be entangled again with the yoke of bondage. We are liberated to serve one another in love and not to serve our flesh by doing whatever we please, not minding the effect it will have on other people.

Many believers, in order to excuse their licentious living quote this verse: "... where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty" - 2 Corinthians 3:17b. Brethren, although free, we are not allowed to use our freedom in a sinful way. But we should always remind ourselves that we are still the servants of Christ. Be not deceived, if we walk in the flesh, in the name of liberty, we are bound to fulfil the lust of the flesh.

Precious people, Christian liberty comes with some restraints - "All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not" - 1 Corinthians 10:23. Have you been set free by Christ? But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours becomes a stumblingblock to them that are weak - 1 Corinthians 8:9. As believers, we are called to a life of self-sacrifice, not seeking our own profit, but the profit of others, that they may be saved.

Prayer: O Lord, help me to walk circumspectly and let not my liberty cause my brethren to stumble, in Jesus' name. Amen. 

Reflection: As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God - 1 Peter 2:16.