Family Life

Scripture – Galatians 4:1-5: ¹What I am saying is that as long as the heir is a child, he is no different from a slave, although he owns the whole estate. ²He is subject to guardians and trustees until the time set by his father. ³So also, when we were children, we were in slavery under the basic principles of the world. ⁴But when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, ⁵to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons.

Reflection: – A primary purpose of the law was to serve as a guardian. When Christ came, that purpose was no longer needed. God sent His Son so we might have full rights as His children.

In college I learned the difference between living under law and living under grace. I’ve been letting that lesson sink in ever since.

Basically, the law presents an external list of rules to follow. I don’t have to think much about what to do. I just consult the list. That also relieves me of a great deal of responsibility.

Living under grace, however, puts responsibility squarely on me to live like a Christian. Eternal salvation is assured. I don’t have to worry about that. I do have to decide how I will live in light of that. Such is the responsibility of freedom. In many ways it’s harder than law.

How are you doing with that? How is life lived under God’s grace working for you? What will help you grow in that?