Verse of the Day 5/25

Verse of the Day 5/25

Galatians 5:13 Holman Christian Standard Bible

13 For you were called to be free, brothers; only don't use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another through love.

We all have basic needs and this concept has been recognized through the years.  Maslov developed his hierarchy of needs many years ago and he placed "self actualization" near the top.  This could not be achieved without first fulfilling the basic requirements of our physiological, safety, and the need to be loved. The problem with putting "self actualization" so high is that it places "me" first, me at the center, me at the top. People actually can become enslaved to trying to please themselves thinking that it will bring happiness.

Jesus' teachings and those of Paul and other gospel writers point to serving others as something that is freeing and will also break the chains of addiction which are attached to the selfish things that we pursue on our own thinking they will bring pleasure.

Verses 14 and 15 reveal what is required of us, "love your neighbor as yourself" so that we are not consumed by one another through backbiting; things done and said to elevate ourselves at the expense of others.

We should examine our speech and actions. Are we among those who "love one another" or that group that "bites and devours"? This reveals whether we are free indeed.

John 8:36

English Standard Version

36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.

Blessings,

Mike

Folllow the Verse of the Day blog at http://mikesvotd.blogspot.com

Ephesians 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace.  NIV

Galatians 5:13-15

Holman Christian Standard Bible

13 For you were called to be free, brothers; only don't use this freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another through love. 14 For the entire law is fulfilled in one statement: Love your neighbor as yourself. 15 But if you bite and devour one another, watch out, or you will be consumed by one another.