Devotion 1: Standing Firm in Christ’s Freedom
Scripture Reading: Galatians 5:1 (ESV)
“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.”
Reflection:
The Apostle Paul’s words in Galatians 5:1 ring like a battle cry for every believer. Christ didn’t just free us from sin’s penalty; He broke the chains of legalism that bind us to human effort for salvation. The Galatians were tempted to add circumcision to their faith, thinking it would make them more acceptable to God. But Paul makes it clear: Jesus plus anything equals nothing. When we try to earn God’s favor through works, we step away from the grace that saves us. True freedom comes from trusting Christ alone—His finished work on the cross is enough. Today, we face similar temptations: thinking our good deeds, church attendance, or moral living justify us before God. But it’s Jesus, nothing else, that makes us right with God. Stand firm in that truth, and don’t let anyone yoke you to a system of works.
Application:
Examine your heart today. Are you resting in Christ’s finished work, or are you subtly trying to earn God’s approval through your actions? Write down one area where you’re tempted to add to Christ’s work (e.g., feeling you must “do more” to be saved). Confess it to God, and thank Him for the freedom of His grace.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for setting me free through Your sacrifice. Forgive me for times I try to add my works to Your perfect righteousness. Help me stand firm in the liberty You’ve given me, trusting You alone for my salvation. May my life reflect Your grace today. Amen.