Children of the Free!

Text: Galatians 4:21-31
Theme: In Christ, we are children of the New Covenant.
Key Verses: “For it is written that Abraham had two sons, one by the slave woman and the other by the free woman” (v. 22). “These things may be taken figuratively, for the women represent two covenants” (v. 24). “Now you, brothers, like Isaac, are children of promise. At that time the son born in the ordinary way persecuted the son born by the power of the Spirit. It is the same now. But what does the Scripture say? ‘Get rid of the slave woman and her son, for the slave woman’s son will never share in the inheritance with the free woman’s son.’ Therefore, brothers, we are not children of the slave woman, but of the free woman” (v. 28-31).
What God said to me: Nothing. I will say nothing to you until you repent. You’re living at this moment like you’re the son of the slave woman Paul was talking about. You’re my son, but you’re not acting like it. Your freedom came at a very high cost–the life of my Son. Why would you use your freedom-of-great-price as an opportunity to live like you want? Yep, I’m done talking with you until you confess and forsake. You think it’s a little thing, but I call it rebellion toward me. You wish to ignore it, but I require you to acknowledge it and be forgiven. Live like the child you are: my child, my free child–free from bondage to sin.
What I said to God: Lord, holy and majestic and worthy God, I’m reminded of what David said in Psalm 33: “From heaven, The Lord looks down and sees all mankind. From His dwelling place, He watches all who live on earth–He who forms the hearts of all, and considers all they do.” Thank You for watching over me, and for watching me. Nothing I do or say or think escapes your piercing gaze. That’s unsettling to my flesh, but refreshing to my spirit. I do confess my sin, my rebellion. It’s not a “little” thing if it dishonors You. I praise You for including me and my family in the children of the free!