Freedom

I've been doing some reading in the book of Galatians, particularly chapter 5.

Galations 5:1a

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.

As Americans we enjoy an enormous amount of freedom in our daily lives--most of us have no idea what it's like to *not* be "free" to enjoy whatever we want whenever we want. However, the freedom that Christ offers runs so much deeper than the legal freedoms we enjoy here.

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Christ offers us freedom

from death

((John 6:47 I tell you the truth, he who believes has everlasting life ))

from our sinful nature

((19Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, 20idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, fisputes, dissensions, factions, 21envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.))

to love others

((Galations 5: 14 The entire law is summed up in a single command: "Love your neighbor as yourself.))

to focus on things that please God

((22But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. 25Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. 26Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.))

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Yet, so often I get caught up in the little things--perceived slights, judgements, gossip, not being content with what others offer me...

I focus wayyy too much on myself and my own feelings and not enough on God--if I were a little more busy thinking about Him and pleasing Him I'd have far less time to feel sorry for myself when things don't go my way or people don't treat me the way I might feel I "deserve" to be treated.

Why is it so easy for me to turn my back on the freedom God has given me?

So...this is me.

Right now.

What I'm working on: less focus on me, more focus on HIM, more love for others, less thought for self

What I want to be: a servant of God, overwhelmed by His freedom, full of love and service for others, empty of self-importance and discontent

You know....in a nutshell. =)