Galatians 5:1 (NLT) 1 So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law.

 Today, on the twentieth day of our prayer and fasting, we are reflecting on the life-changing gift of the freedom we have in Christ. Our verse for today reminds us of the purpose of Christ's sacrifice, which is to set us free. This freedom is not just a theological concept but a lived reality that can transform every aspect of our lives.

Jesus took our sins on the cross, freeing us from them. Thanks to God's grace, the sins that used to control us are gone. As followers of Christ, we are no longer prisoners to sin; instead, we have been given the incredible gift of freedom in Christ.

But sometimes, it's hard to accept and live in this freedom. We often remember our past mistakes and feel bad about them. To really live in the freedom Jesus gives us, we must choose to focus on this new life and not get stuck in our old ways.

One important way to keep our freedom is by reading and understanding God's Word. The Bible is not just a book; it's God's truth. When we fill our minds with His words, we can fight against the lies that try to trap us. Jesus said, "You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free" (John 8:32). Knowing God's truth helps us stay strong against sin and temptation.

Also, being free means apologising to God for our sins daily. Every day is an opportunity to come before God, lay down our sins, and embrace His forgiveness. Confession is not a sign of weakness but rather an act of strength and humility. It keeps our hearts soft and lets us hear God better. As we say sorry, we remember how much God loves us and how forgiving He is. This helps us change and become better.

A PRAYER OF GRATITUDE:

Dear Heavenly Father, I am grateful for the gift of freedom that comes through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Your love and mercy have liberated me from the chains of sin and set me on a path of true freedom. Thank You for bearing the weight of my sins on the cross and removing the burden of my past mistakes and failures.

I am thankful for the daily renewal of my spirit through Your Word and presence. Your guidance and wisdom lead me in righteousness, and Your forgiveness washes away my guilt and shame.

Lord, I am grateful for Your strength and courage, enabling me to stand firm in my freedom. Help me to remember that this freedom is for my benefit and to serve and uplift others. Thank You for the community of believers with whom I can share this journey.

Thank You for the freedom You have given me today. May my life be a continuous song of gratitude, echoing Your goodness and mercy. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.

CLOSING THOUGHT:

As we finish our devotional, let's remember the freedom that we have in Christ. This freedom is a journey that involves growth, transformation and empowerment through God's love and grace.

ADDITIONAL SCRIPTURES FOR REFLECTION:

Romans 8:1-2 (NLT) 1 So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. 2 And because you belong to Him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you[b] from the power of sin that leads to death.

2 Corinthians 3:17 (NLT) 17 For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.

John 8:36 (NLT) 36 So if the Son sets you free, you are truly free.

Psalm 118:5 (NLT) 5 In my distress I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered me and set me free.

Galatians 5:13 (NLT) 13 For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love.

Always remember that true freedom is found in Christ, and it has the power to transform lives.