Devotion 3: Children of the Free Woman
Scripture: Galatians 4:30-31 (ESV) – “But what does the Scripture say? ‘Cast out the slave woman and her son, for the son of the slave woman shall not inherit with the son of the free woman.’ So, brothers, we are not children of the slave woman, but of the free woman.”
Reflection:
Paul’s illustration of Hagar and Sarah cuts to the heart of our identity in Christ. Hagar’s son, Ishmael, was born of human effort, bound to slavery. Sarah’s son, Isaac, was born of God’s promise, free and an heir. We, too, are children of the promise, born again through faith in Jesus, who fulfilled the Law to set us free. The temptation to return to the Law—to rely on our works or rituals for God’s favor—is like choosing slavery over sonship. As children of the “Jerusalem above,” we are free, not bound. When Satan whispers that we must do more to be worthy, we look to Christ, who has done it all. Our inheritance is secure in Him.
Application:
Today, identify one way you’re tempted to rely on your own efforts to feel “good enough” for God—maybe it’s a religious habit, a good deed, or even a feeling of guilt you can’t shake. Write it down and then cross it out, reminding yourself that Christ’s righteousness covers you. To live as a child of the free woman, do one thing today that reflects your freedom in Christ: forgive someone, serve joyfully, or rest in God’s grace without striving. Share this truth with a fellow believer to encourage them in their freedom.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for making me a child of the free woman through Jesus’ perfect work. Help me reject the lies of self-reliance and rest in the freedom of Your grace. May my life reflect the joy of being Your heir, and may I point others to Christ, our only Savior. In His name, Amen.