“For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.” (Galatians 5:13)
The liberty we have in Christ permits us to do the will of God. It is the springboard from which we can walk and please Him in all things. The word “occasion” in the above verse has this meaning:
– a place from which a movement or attack is made, a base of operations
– metaphorically, that by which endeavor is excited and from which it goes forth
– that which gives occasion and supplies matter for an undertaking, the incentive
– the resources we avail ourselves of in attempting or performing anything
How often do people give themselves over to their own thoughts and pleasures when they are “free” to do so. This “freedom” may be an opportunity to do something because no one is around to stop them. It may be the permission of those who condone or consent with their actions. But just because we can do something, or we have man’s “go ahead,” doesn’t mean we have God’s “green light.”
Jesus did not come into the world to give us the confidence to “sin boldly” without fear of consequence. He died so that we might be dead to sin. He arose so we might be alive for God. Use your liberty in Christ to accomplish the will of the Father in your life. Be free indeed.