S – For freedom, Christ set us free. Stand firm, then, and don’t submit again to a yoke of slavery
Galatians 5:1 CSB
O – Commentary:
The freedom given by Christ liberates believers from the law.
yoke of slavery In Jewish tradition, the image of the yoke was often used to describe the law’s role of guiding people in righteousness (as is seen in the rabbinic work Mishnah Abot 3:5; compare Matt 11:29–30). Paul redirects this imagery to clarify the law’s effect now that Christ has come: It does not lead or teach people anymore, but instead enslaves them
A – None of us want to be a slave to something but we do choose it at times. With the Jewish person, it was the law. Today, we choose things that tie us to things that captivate our attention, time and energy. We are called to freedom but we enjoy the “comfort” of being yoked to these things. When something is more important than God, we are not walking in true freedom.
R – Heavenly Father, you are the Lord over all things. We want to walk in freedom today. Whatever is holding us captive in our attention, time and energy that isn’t according to your will, we choose to put you first. Give us the courage and strength to walk in freedom today.
Just Add Water . Chris Bonham 