Summary of this week's sermon
Every week we want to have a 5 day devotional recapping our previous sermon so we can grow deeper together.
This Sunday we took our service to the Downtown Zane Square in Lancaster, OH.
This is a recap of Pastor Scott's sermon on "What Will You Do With Your Freedom?"
Day 1: The Gift of True Freedom
Devotional
When we think about freedom, our minds often drift to doing whatever we want, whenever we want. But God's definition of freedom looks quite different. True freedom, as defined by God, isn't about living without constraints - it's about living with purpose. Just as a fish finds its freedom in water, not on land, we find our true freedom when we live according to God's design. This freedom was purchased at an incredible cost through Christ's sacrifice, demonstrating that real freedom isn't free - it's priceless.
Bible Verse
"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." - Galatians 5:1
Reflection Question
How does your understanding of freedom change when you view it as a gift from God rather than a right to do whatever you want?
Quote
Freedom itself, they said, is a gift from God and therefore is subject only to the sovereignty of God.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the precious gift of freedom through Christ. Help me understand and embrace Your definition of true freedom. Guide me to use this gift as You intended, not for my own desires but for Your glory. Amen.
Day 2: Freedom Expressed Through Love
Devotional
Love and freedom are inseparably linked in God's economy. When we truly understand freedom in Christ, it naturally expresses itself through love. Think about it - Jesus wasn't forced to die for us; He chose to out of love. This demonstrates that authentic freedom isn't about following rules or checking boxes; it's about having the liberty to choose love, even when it's difficult. When we grasp this truth, our actions become motivated not by obligation but by genuine care for others.
Bible Verse
"The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." - Galatians 5:6
Reflection Question
In what ways might your actions change if they were motivated purely by love rather than obligation?
Quote
Laws don't make you love someone. If I only stayed with my wife because divorce was illegal, that doesn't mean I love my wife. The laws don't push you to love, but love can push you to the principles of God.
Prayer
Father, teach me to express my freedom through love. Help me move beyond mere duty to genuine care for others. Let Your love flow through me freely. Amen.
Day 3: Freedom to Serve
Devotional
Freedom in Christ gives us a beautiful opportunity - the chance to serve others willingly. Unlike forced service, which breeds resentment, freely chosen service creates joy and purpose. When we use our freedom to serve others, we're actually following Christ's example. He used His divine freedom not for His own benefit, but to serve humanity. This paradox of finding freedom through service might seem counterintuitive, but it's at the heart of Christian living.
Bible Verse
"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." - Galatians 5:13
Reflection Question
What opportunities to serve others have you passed by recently, and how might embracing those opportunities lead to greater freedom?
Quote
When people choose to serve others, freedom grows.
Prayer
Dear God, help me see opportunities to serve others today. Give me the courage to use my freedom not for self-indulgence, but for serving others in love. Amen.
Day 4: The Cost of Freedom
Devotional
Freedom always comes with a price. Just as our nation's freedom was won through sacrifice, our spiritual freedom was purchased at an even greater cost - the life of Jesus Christ. Understanding this cost should transform how we view and use our freedom. It's not something to take for granted or waste on selfish pursuits. Instead, it's a precious gift that should be used wisely and purposefully.
Bible Verse
"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." - Galatians 5:1
Reflection Question
How does understanding the cost of your spiritual freedom impact how you choose to live each day?
Quote
Jesus didn't have to do what he did to make us free. We celebrate it. We love it. But Jesus could have just as rightly decided that we should not gain freedom through his blood and should have to accept the consequences of our sin. He didn't do that. Why not? Because of love.
Prayer
Jesus, thank You for paying the ultimate price for my freedom. Help me never take this gift for granted. Guide me to live in a way that honors Your sacrifice. Amen.
Day 5: Living Out Our Freedom
Devotional
True freedom isn't just about what we've been freed from, but what we've been freed for. We're called to live purposefully, choosing daily whether to use our freedom for self-service or to serve others. This choice shapes not only our own lives but impacts those around us. When we choose to serve others, share the message of Jesus, and put others before ourselves, we demonstrate what genuine freedom looks like. This is how freedom grows and flourishes in our communities.
Bible Verse
"The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love." - Galatians 5:6
Reflection Question
What specific steps can you take this week to use your freedom to make a positive impact in someone else's life?
Quote
You want to see freedom grow. Choose to serve others. Choose to express your faith in love, not law. Choose to think of others before yourself. That's how we see freedom grow for our country and more importantly, for the name of Jesus.
Prayer
Lord, help me live out my freedom in ways that honor You and serve others. Give me wisdom to make choices that reflect Your love and grow Your kingdom. Amen.