Free From The Cycles
Daily Rays of Hope #154
Galatians 5:13 NIV - 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.
In a world that is preoccupied with freedom of expression and liberty, we often take the freedom that God has given us for granted. We take the freedom of decision and the freedom that comes with repentance very lightly. God has set us free that we may walk boldly in authority and dominion.
The freedom that God has granted us through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross enabled access to freedom from sin, religion, and the weight of this world. This was not freedom to continue to operate in the old thing with the college mindset that God would forgive us over and over again. Yes, He is a loving God who never leaves us nor forsakes us.
However, an unrepentant heart and a continuous indulgence in the flesh makes mockery of the sacrifice of Jesus. It goes beyond taking it for granted and strolls into callous disregard for the love of God and the sacrifice of his son, Jesus Christ.
Romans 6:1-2 reads:
What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?
God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? - KJV
Decide today to remain dead to sin. Release old habits, thoughts, and ideals that have kept you in cycles of repentance from sins that God has forgiven again and again. Stand upright and the love of our Father and know that he is with you. There is no temptation that has overtaken man that Jesus himself did not face.
13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. - 1 Corinthians 10:13 NIV
The Holy Spirit has the power to equip you with a way of escape and the courage to stand in the will of the Father.
Certainly. Here's a continuation of your devotional with the requested structure and tone:
Three Practical Ways To Walk Out This Word Daily
1. Choose the Spirit Over the Flesh
Be Mindful in the Moment
Each day presents countless opportunities to either satisfy the flesh or walk in the Spirit. Begin your mornings by asking the Holy Spirit to help you be aware of your choices. When tempted to act out of frustration, pride, lust, or selfishness, pause and choose the way of righteousness. Let Galatians 5:16 guide your mindset: “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
2. Serve Others with Intention
Look for Small Opportunities to Love
Freedom in Christ is not a license to serve yourself but an invitation to serve others. Practice humility by intentionally looking for ways to be helpful, kind, and present. Whether it is encouraging a coworker, helping a neighbor, or simply listening with compassion, your acts of love reflect the heart of Jesus and fulfill your calling.
3. Repent Quickly and Fully
Keep a Tender Heart Toward God
When you fall short, don’t wait days or weeks to return to God. Practice quick and honest repentance. Keep your heart soft and your conscience clear. Ask the Lord to reveal any hidden motives and help you walk in obedience. Daily repentance is not a burden; it is a gift that keeps you aligned with grace and growing in holiness.
As you walk in the freedom Christ has given you, let it be a freedom that leads to love, service, and a life that reflects the heart of your Father. You have been set free for a purpose. Use that freedom to glorify God and bless those around you.