Far too often the criminal mind returns to his former way of life after his release from jail, thus misusing his freedom. After peace is restored, warring parties often return to the battlefield. Once the heart is calmed, the worrier often finds new sources of anxiety. Not long after we purchase the latest new thing, our hearts long for something more. We grow comfortable in our behaviors and attitudes, so much so that we return to these habits, even after they are temporarily satisfied.
Galatians 5:13 says, “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” Jesus sets the new believer free from his wrong ways of thinking and behaving. His redemption of our souls on the cross put to death these sinful thoughts and actions. We should not return to these old ways. Rather we should use our release from the bondage of selfishness and self-centeredness to serve others in love.
The believer has been given freedom. It is freedom to change from harmful and sinful ways. It is freedom to love unselfishly. It is freedom to be light in a world of darkness. It is freedom to encourage others to join in this freedom.
Reluctant Retiree 