“For you were called to freedom brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, 'you shall love your neighbor as yourself.'” Galatians 5:13-14

Meditation: 

Paul states that the entire law is summed up in the single command, “Love your neighbor as you love yourself.” Paul says we were called to freedom. There has been a lot of debate around freedom lately. Mostly we are hearing that we live in a free country and have the freedom to do as we please. Well, maybe, but Paul through the Scripture tells us we have been given freedom in order to serve one another. The specific word Paul uses for service is from the Greek word “doulos” often translated as servant, as in the lowest form of servant in the Greek world at the time of Paul. The meaning here is to be in the position of a servant and act accordingly; to be subject and serve in subjection or bondage. Metaphorically spoken of voluntary service, to obey, be devoted to (Luke 15:29; Rom. 12:11, doing what the occasion demands; Gal. 5:13; Phil. 2:22; Gen. 29:15, 18, 20, 25, 30). In a moral sense, to obey or be devoted to God or Christ.

Paul exhorts us to serve one another, in love. To love our neighbors as we love ourselves and to love with sacrifice, putting our neighbors needs above our own. Love and service: undoubtedly tied together in the mind of God as expectations for the saints as they journey through their earthly lives. What blessings unfold when the body of Christ loves and serves one another! 

Prayer: 

Dear God, cause us to be single-minded in our commitment to love and serve one another. Our flesh can bring division, but Christ prayed for unity and Paul shows us the pathway is through serving others. Enable us to have Your mind by being filled with the Holy Spirit and submitting our will to Yours. We want to bring You glory and see the world believe that Jesus Christ was sent to earth by our Heavenly Father, to be Savior and Lord of all. Today, Father, show me how to love and serve others in real and tangible ways and in so doing let the world see Your beauty and Your love and be drawn to You.