Lenten Devotion – Freedom to Love and Serve Others
Day 8, 22 February 2024
“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love..” Galatians 4:31
Reflecting on the challenges we faced as a couple, Galatians 5:13-15 resonates with our journey through the years. Starting out wasn’t easy – two individuals, raised differently with unspoken expectations, especially when it came to communication. Unfulfilled expectations often led to arguments, escalating into hurtful words and bigger issues.
In these moments, the wisdom of Galatians 5:13-15 became apparent. It urges us not to use our freedom to indulge the flesh but to serve one another in love. Early in our marriage, we were consumed by our own desires, reacting in anger and frustration. However, as the years passed, we learned to turn to God, especially in moments of anger.
Through seeking God, we found the strength to navigate conflicts with love rather than resentment. We discovered that even in our most unlovable moments, God’s grace allowed us to extend grace to each other. Instead of allowing arguments to spiral into hurtful exchanges, we now strive to use our freedom in Christ to serve and love each another, even when faced with challenges.
Galatians reminds us that true freedom is not about selfish desires but about choosing to love and serve, especially when it’s difficult. As we’ve embraced this perspective, our marriage has grown stronger, and our love has deepened. Through the ups and downs, we’ve learned to lean on God’s guidance, allowing His love to shape our interactions and strengthen our bond.
Desmond and Kim