Daily Devotional
Are You Growing in Freedom?
“My son, do not forget my law, but let your heart keep my commands; for length of days and long life and peace they will add to you. Let not mercy and truth forsake you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart, and so find favor and high esteem in the sight of God and man. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
Proverbs 3:1-6
July 4, 2024
Ponder This
Responsibility and liberty are inextricably connected. When a baby is born, that baby has no responsibilities. He doesn’t have to worry about paying the light bills. He doesn’t have to worry about going to the grocery store. The baby doesn’t even have to worry about changing his own clothes. The baby has no responsibilities, but the baby also has no liberties. He doesn’t decide where he’s going to sleep. He doesn’t decide what kind of diapers he is going to wear. He almost doesn’t decide anything for himself.
But as the child grows and can assume more responsibilities, he is given more liberties. After a while, when the child is responsible enough, maybe he’s allowed to walk home from school. Then comes the day when he or she is sixteen and he says, “Dad, can I borrow the car?” The dad considers, “Is my son a responsible individual? Has he shown by the way he lives that he can be trusted to take a car on the highway and drive it? Has he shown enough responsibility to be given this liberty?” In the same way, we experience more freedom as we further become people who love God and His commands.
- How have you seen the link between responsibility and liberty in your life?
- What does it look like to be responsible with the commands God has given you?
Practice This
Reflect on any commands you have been ignoring and take immediate action.
FOR YOUR GIFT TO THE MINISTRY
Front Porch Moments by Gayle Foster
WITH KEY INSIGHTS FROM HER FATHER, ADRIAN ROGERS
I try to unplug each morning with Jesus with just my rocking chair, my Bible, and a pen.
Having a secret place is very important because I know that Jesus is always there waiting for me. I know where I can find Him! His presence is everywhere, but there are places where it is so thick you can cut it with a knife. You may not even have a front porch, but there is a secret place for you as well. God’s invitations are for anyone who will respond. There is no more important request than the one found in Psalm 27:8: “My heart has heard You say, ‘Come and talk with Me.’ And my heart responds, ‘Lord, I am coming.’”
