Inspired by . . . somewhere in the middle

The pendulum swings. 

As humans, we tend to rush blindly to one end or the other. This is true with most anything and the Law of God is no exception. We either view God's law as the solution and move far to the legalism side or we view it as the problem and move far to antinomianism (anti-law) side. 

Somewhere in the middle, we find freedom.

But we may have to set aside some negative thought processes to get there.

As our Pastor spoke from Romans and Hebrews this past weekend he reminded us that we are not under the law as a means of justification.

Even as I was agreeing with him in my mind he asked the question, "What is your response when the evil one accuses you?"

I don't know about you, friend, but that one hit me dead center.

Why? Because my response is to fumble around in my box of good deeds as I lamely attempt to point out where I haven't failed. The result? The enemy just laughs and heaps further condemnation because he knows that my good deeds will never be enough. They will enslave me as sure as sin itself.

He knows that good deeds offered year after year never bring the worshipper to perfection. (Heb 10:1)

My response reveals that I am still looking for justification through obedience to God's law. I am looking in the wrong place, beloved!

Our justification, being made righteous before God, is achieved through Christ alone. (Rom 5:9; Rom 5:15: 1Cor 1:30; 2Cor 5:21)

When the enemy accuses, our right response is to point to the blood and sacrifice of Jesus Christ. 

All our sins, past, present, and future were forgiven at the cross. 

Period! End of story!

Yet the enemy likes to talk and cajole and stir up doubt. That's when we need to shut him down with the truths of scripture. 

We are justified by Christ alone, covered by the power of His blood.

"It follows that there is now no condemnation for those who are united with Christ Jesus. In Christ Jesus, the life-giving law of the Spirit has set you free from the law of sin and death." Rom 8:1-2

Let us live in that freedom. A life that rejoices to be commanded by the One whom it loves most. One Who is completely trustworthy and true.

Shalom,

Inspired by . . . what makes you free

The proud boast:
"We are Abraham's descendants, they replied; we have never been in slavery to anyone. What do you mean by saying, "You will become free"?

The Truth:
"In very truth, I tell you', said Jesus, 'that everyone who commits sin is a slave. The slave has no permanent standing in the household, but the son belongs to it for ever. If then the Son sets you free, you will indeed be free.' "

Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. We enjoy more freedoms in this country than in any other country in the world. More so than the Jews, who were under Roman rule at the time, we have much about which to boast and celebrate. And we should celebrate. And we should remember the cost of our freedom. For freedom isn't free. Neither our personal freedom nor our freedom from sin. Both were paid for in blood.

Wishing you all a happy and safe Independence Day!

Inspired by . . . sacrifice

 

 

Lives lost

victories won

securing freedom

for everyone

 

Textured with kk_rainyday

 

 Thirteen began

Fifty carry on

the

dream

 

Textured with kk_dream

 

Dreams are worth

fighting for.

 

Textured with kk_dream

 

Freedom

isn't

free.

 

I'm remembering the fallen today.

I'm praying for those who are currently serving, both at home and abroad.

I'm praying for the families who are left behind.

Their sacrifice is great -

and should be honored.

 

 

We Honor You Today

We Remember You

We Thank You

 

Shalom,

 

 

 

 

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Inspired by. . . freedom

A movie poster claims, "Everyone is driven by something."

If that's true, then it's worth asking the questions,

"What is driving me?"

And...

"Is it positive?"

"Or enslaving?"

 

Jesus answered them, "I can guarantee this truth:

Whoever lives a sinful life is a slave to sin."  John 8:34

 

Textured with Bonnie's medieval magic

 

I think about things in my past that have driven me, or perhaps more appropriately, held me captive. Most of these strongholds boiled down to a drive, a basic need for approval, manifested in a series of bad choices and just plain sin.

I think it's important to call sin - - sin. Rationalizing it, or pretending that it's not as bad as it is just gives the enemy the power to hold us tighter. To control us longer. Only truth can break the chains of sin. Only truth can free us from the suffocating, paralyzing weight that sin brings upon our soul.

 

So if the Son sets you free, you will be absolutely free. John 8:36

 

I am often overwhelmed when I look back and see who I once was, compared to who God has made me today. Overwhelmed. Astonished. Humbled. Grateful. Unworthy.

 

Textured with Kim's justbe

 

Free.

The freedom I have in Christ, the victory over sin, the feeling of the emotional fetters falling from my hands and feet is. . .

. . .inexplicable.

There are no words to describe it. One must experience it to fully understand.

Christianity - a life lived with and for Christ - is far from the ball and chain that many believe it to be.

 

Christ has freed us so that we may enjoy the benefits of freedom.

Therefore, be firm in this freedom, and don't become slaves again. Gal 5:1

 

And if you are a Believer currently living a life of dos and don'ts, may I humbly suggest that you spend some serious time getting to know  your Savior.

 

You haven't received the spirit of slaves that leads you into fear again.

Instead, you have received the spirit of God's adopted

children by which we call out, "Abba! Father!" Rom 8:15

 

But now you know God, or rather, God knows you.

So how can you turn back again to the powerless and

bankrupt principles of this world? Why do you want

to become their slaves all over again? Gal 4:9

 

While nothing replaces simply picking up your bible and reading His Word, I have recently found some tools that you might find helpful.

YouVersion is simple, ad-free Bible that brings the word of God into your daily life. They offer several reading plans to help get you in the Word daily. I'm currently doing the Major Beliefs plan, along with some of my friends at Goodreads. Won't you join us?

Good Morning Girls offers online Bible studies. You can join an existing group, or form a group of your own. The main purpose of joining a group is for accountability. I'll be participating in their upcoming Gratitude study, and the Advent study. If you're interested in joining our group, send me and email and I'll send you the group info.

And last, but by no means least is e-sword. If you haven't checked out this resource, stop what you're doing and go there now! Seriously.

Oh, did I mention that all these resources are. . .

. . . free. . . .

 

Blessings,

 

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