Devotion 1: Freed from Bondage by Christ
Scripture: Galatians 4:4-5 (ESV) – “But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.”
Reflection:
Like Frederick Douglass, who escaped the chains of slavery and passionately proclaimed the beauty of freedom, we too were once in bondage—not to physical chains, but to sin and the demands of God’s Law. The Law revealed our inability to measure up to God’s perfect standard. Every failure weighed on us, a reminder of the penalty we deserved. But then came Jesus, born under the Law, living perfectly where we failed, and dying to take our punishment. Through His sacrifice, we are free—free from guilt, free from striving to earn God’s favor, free to live as His children. Through His perfect life, we are given righteousness. This freedom transforms us. It calls us to detest our old life of sin and to share the good news of Christ’s redemption with others still in chains.
Application:
Today, reflect on the areas of your life where you still feel the weight of guilt or the temptation to earn God’s approval through your own efforts. Write down one specific burden—perhaps a past sin or a current struggle—and bring it to Jesus in prayer. Thank Him for fulfilling the Law on your behalf and for setting you free. Then, consider one person in your life who needs to hear about this freedom. Pray for an opportunity to share the gospel with them, boldly proclaiming the Savior who redeems.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for coming under the Law to set me free. Forgive me for the times I try to earn Your favor or carry the guilt You’ve already paid for. Help me live as Your freed child, sharing Your love with those still in bondage. In Your holy name, Amen.