WEEK 1 DAY 2

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and
do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.”
GALATIANS 5:1

PONDER

“Now that we are living in a sin-stained world, life this side of heaven
will never be completely under control, and working harmoniously.
Therefore, our desire to create and manage and administrate (God’s
likeness in us) is distorted. It results in our wanting to be “god” in
our own little worlds.”
CINDI MCMENAMIN (2010)

The biblical account of the origins of being “out of control” and the beginnings
of the degrading nature of slavery, plus the hold sin has on us, is found in
Genesis 3. Prior to Genesis 3 there was absolute freedom of relationship with
God, nothing was hidden and sin had not entered our hearts. Now the chaos
of sin and slavery ruled, plus our relationship with God was significantly and
vitally damaged.

ACTION

Recognize today that your desire to control and manage your life may be
distorted (most likely is) and jot down those moments when you begin to
realize, “Oh, I am using or acting out right now because I am feeling…. and I
want to change the way I feel about…..” Ask God to show you when you are
trying to control your own life and also the excuses and justifications you
might be using.

PRAYER

Lord, I have no idea what it is to live in real true freedom with You, it is difficult
to imagine walking in utter freedom and safety with You in the garden. I do
not want to live in chaos anymore. Please show me true freedom even with
this messy, sinful world outside and the rebellion of my own heart inside.

CHALLENGE

Sit quietly for 5 minutes handing over the control of your life to God or asking
to be made willing to do so. Continue memorizing Galatians 5:1. Take out your
Bible and read Genesis 3, asking God what He wants you to know..