13 For you were called to be free, brothers and sisters; only don’t use this freedom as an opportunity[a] for the flesh, but serve one another through love. (Galatians 5:13 CSB)

Much like yesterday’s note on being a good steward, today we look at the freedom we have in Christ. That freedom is something we exercise in the service of others in love.

It may become easy to think that, once forgiven, we have free reign to do as we like. But as Paul said, “while all things may be permissible for me…but not all things are beneficial.” He was talking about things that might make others stumble due to their traditions. In an effort to be “all things to all men” Paul knew some things would not be beneficial in his ministry, though they were permissible.

While we are forgiven of our sins through belief, we must submit ourselves to the law to regulate our actions. Not being a slave to the law, but submitting to its benefits and using that to serve others.