Read:

Galatians 5:13 “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.”

Think:

According to a survey conducted by Go Banking in 2018, 500 individuals were asked what they would do if they won the lottery, and the results were quite surprising. Only seven percent of the respondents mentioned that their first action upon winning would be to donate a portion of their winnings to charity. The survey also revealed various other responses, including hiring a chauffeur, purchasing an RV, and hiring a chef. We are glad to receive blessing, but less likely to look for ways to pass the blessing on to others.

As we come together to celebrate freedom on the 4th of July, a particular phrase from a verse resonates: "Use your freedom to serve one another in love." Living in America, we are blessed with abundant freedoms: freedom of speech, freedom to worship, and the freedom to pursue "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." However, we must remember that these freedoms were acquired through battle, not winning the lottery. They were earned through the sacrifice of countless soldiers who shed their blood for our nation. They were meant to be used for the good of others.

The freedom mentioned by Paul in the Bible was also purchased through the ultimate sacrifice of our Savior. Our Savior died for the ultimate freedom so we can “serve one another in love.”

Apply:

Instead of putting yourself first, think about others. Ask what they need when you get up to grab something from the kitchen. Make small decisions to be thoughtful.

Pray:

Jesus, help me to become more like you every day. Allow me to place others’ needs above mine. In Jesus' name, Amen.