#freedom – Brian Friedl

With Freedom Comes Great Responsibility

Brian — Wed, 24 Jan 2018 12:44:27 +0000

There are few things in life more precious than freedom. I’ve heard dozens of testimonies of people who have suffered under the hands of their own government. Now, citizens of the United States, these individuals are so thankful for the freedoms they have to work, buy property, and even vote.

At the risk of sounding s little like Spider-Man, I say this, “With freedom comes great responsibility.” Freedom brings with it choice. We have the options we were once denied. When it comes to our freedom in Christ, we now have the option to walk in His righteousness and light where previously we were only able to walk in sin and darkness.

Our flesh will not give up in this life; however, as it always wants more for itself. The freedom we have been called to is not for the sake of our flesh, but instead for the sake of Love for those around us. We must remember that when freedom is realized, choice is present. Notice that you are “called to freedom” implying that there was a purpose in mind and that purpose was not to gratify the flesh, but instead to walk in the light with Him and discipling others to do the same.

Reflection

Read Galatians 5:13-25

How are we to go about living out this scripture ?

In what ways are you turning your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh?

Confess to God and to a trusted brother/sister in Christ and begin walking in the Doirit again today.

Prayer

Father, we confess that our flesh is weak when it comes to following you and strong when it comes to its lusts for itself. Conquer this enemy of your righteousness that we may render it dead and move on to walking in Your Spirit and Truth. May your power of love be unleashed in us that we may carry out Your mission for the sake of the Gospel. Thank you LORD for calling us to freedom, may it all be used for Your glory in Jesus’ name, Amen!

Never Forget The Debt

Brian — Wed, 19 Jul 2017 11:33:23 +0000

Before we put our trust in Jesus, we often think we’re a pretty good people. We can even recall the good deeds we’ve done if we’re questioned and we especially like to share how we’ve sacrificed for others so we look good.

After we surrender to Christ, our life is no longer about our performance, but instead it centers around the amazing work of our Savior at the cross. For the debt that was paid there cannot fully be comprehended by the human mind.

While we stood convicted of all of our crimes and lawlessness, Christ hung in pain for everyone of them to free us from those sins for His glory. We must never forget the cost of this exchange. May the depths of His love move us to present our bodies as a living sacrifice here forward. Let every thought be captive to the One who rescued us from our hopelessness once and for all and let us advance by faith.

Reflection

How do you keep from forgetting your faith and trusting in yourself again?

Read Luke 23 and Meditate on what was paid for your freedom and rejoice out loud for His mercy and grace!

Prayer

Father, help us to never forget the debt that was paid for our freedom. Keep us from the temptation to to return to trusting ourselves. May our hearts be fully surrendered to You and our faith abound; leading us to walk in the good works you have prepared for us to walk in. All for Your glory in Jesus’ name, Amen!

Freedom In Dependence

Brian — Tue, 04 Jul 2017 12:15:34 +0000

Freedom has always required intentional sacrifice. It implies a leaving behind of some form of bondage, whether great or small. That which holds captive is not willing to give in but will put up a fight.

This is certainly true of the country we live in. Many men and women have given their lives for the freedoms we enjoy today. They had given their most precious resource that we may reap the benefit for centuries to come.

As you reflect on this sacrifice know there is an even greater freedom and sacrifice that had been won and given. We have been freed for the law of sin and death:

“For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death.”

‭‭Romans‬ ‭8:2‬ ‭NASB‬‬

This not only changes our daily experience, but redraws our eternity. For our identity has been transformed from enemy of God to child of the most high. Our sins that held us in bondage, were dealt with on the cross. We now live in a freedom that transcends the limits of the physical realm.

While freedom in Christ can be compared to the freedom in this country, there is one very significant difference. Today, we celebrate our independence whereas with Christ, I celebrate my dependence. My spiritual bondage was not a battle that I won by my strategic tactics or great strength. It was a gift given me by One who I strive to be more dependent on daily.

As We celebrate our independence in this country, We, likewise, celebrate the dependence of our hearts, souls, and minds on Jesus Christ, our Lord!

The Truth About Freedom

Brian — Mon, 17 Apr 2017 12:38:06 +0000

I remember my well my desires for freedom. I would echo things I had heard on movies like, “I have to get out of this town” and “I need to spread my wings”. As high school was coming to a close, I began to get really irritated with my parents. I never really spoke it out loud to them, but in my mind I had somehow been convinced that they were standing in the way of this freedom I longed for.

Up to this point I had pretty much taken the path of least resistance by doing whatever they said. Not because I wanted to obey, but because I didn’t like conflict. I had allowed my mind to be convinced that heir instructions were shackles and chains. I quickly found a way out right after graduation and moved in with a friend.

Shortly thereafter, I realized that freedom wasn’t the result of not having any instruction but instead the result of following good instruction. I noticed that the easiest part of life had come to a close. I was now responsible for myself and all the bills, chores, etc. There were so many things I didn’t know how to do because my pride had kept me from learning, and Google was nowhere to be found

If we look closely at today’s passage there are two parts contrasted:

Ignoring instruction
Receiving Correction

What’s the challenge with receiving instruction and correction? It’s simple. PRIDE

My pride had taken me to a place where I despised myself and was unwilling to listen. There are many people around us every day who have the ability to share some great instruction and offer correction to us. We all have the opportunity to be blessed by these individuals if our pride is put away.

Freedom FROM instruction And correction leads to bondage; not freedom. We need our brothers and sisters in Christ speaking the truth in love to us (both instruction and correction) so that we may grow in the obedience that leads to true freedom.

Reflection

How are you at receiving instruction?

Is your first reaction, “I already know how to do this” or “I am so thankful he is showing me how to…”?

How are you receiving correction?

Is your first reaction, “who is she to correct me”?

Mediate on this verse. Confess your pride as ask God to humble and grow you.

Prayer

Father, your instruction is priceless. We delight in the law of Your word. Humble us where necessary that we may grow in obedience to You and experience the true freedom You give. We thank You for all that you put I our path to instruct and correct us. May we be Your humble, ever-growing servants in Jesus’ name, Amen!

Free From The Law

Brian — Sat, 09 Jul 2016 09:53:09 +0000

As I travel around the country, I am amazed at the number of people who I talk to that are genuinely striving to keep the 10 commandments apart from Christ. Though they have heard the gospel and received its truth, they have run back to a law-keeping mindset and have convinced themselves if they work hard enough they can do it.

To me, this is like buying a brand new sports car and taking the tires and rims off and trying to push it by ourselves wherever we go. Those that are stronger may get it to rock back and forth a little but quickly find out it’s not going anywhere. We need something else. Without wheels there’s no movement. Without Jesus there’s no power to move and grow spiritually.

The 10 commandments were designed to point out our sin and ultimately our need of a Savior. We cannot reduce the Christian life to 10 rules to follow. We will fail and it will again reveal that we need a Savior. The law brings bondage because it points out our sin and our inability to keep it. Jesus brings freedom as He satisfied the law fully with His finished work at the cross.

The ironic part is that when our desire is to seek to know Jesus and walk with Him, the end result is obedience. Yet when our desire is to keep the 10 commandments, our eyes wander from Christ and the result is disobedience.

Personal Reflection

Where are you at this morning with your relationship with God? Are you trying to keep the 10 to show Him you’re good? Or are you seeking to know Him and follow Him? Don’t just answer this question without thinking. Look for evidence in your life that confirms what you believe to be true about your relationship. Confess where necessary and redirect your attention to knowing and following Christ.

Prayer Focus

Gracious Father, we confess that we struggle with our flesh in this area. We know that It requires less sacrifice to just try to keep some rules rather than surrender to you. We praise you for your perfect plan to mature us and draw us to you. Pierce our hearts with your truth and give us a desire above all else to know and follow you. Let your love for us cause us to love you more than anything within our grasp. Thank you for truly setting us free in Christ, Amen!

Freedom To Rest While You’re Standing

Brian — Fri, 03 Jun 2016 11:35:57 +0000

The LORD God has planned the greatest rescue of all times for a self-imprisoned people. Israel continued to turn its back on their God and and a result found themselves in chains of slavery on more than one occasion.

We often find ourselves in the same place but as Gentiles in modern times. There are three actions of God mentioned that are paralleled in what Christ has done for us:

He brought them out of the land of Egypt so that they would not be slaves. In the same way Christ through His finished work at the cross has freed us. We are no longer slaves to sin
He broke the bars of their yoke. In Christ we no longer need to toil but we can rest in his power.
He made them walk erect or upright. This is reminds me of righteousness. For under the law we cannot stand. We find ourselves burdened and a sinner, yet as a believer, Christ is our righteousness. We can stand and walk with Him in the light. For He cleanses us from all unrighteousness with His blood.

Personal Reflection

What is your Egypt? What prevailing sin do you need to leave behind? It has been there so long it has become comfortable and there are days you long to go back to it, forgetting that God has set in front of you the promised land. Confess to Him today and rejoice in His rescue. Walk in the light and let His blood cleanses you today!

Prayer Focus

Father we confess to you that we sometimes long for the sins of our past believing in our minds that was somehow better. Let your truth squash that lie and may out affections be set on you alone. Draw us into a deeper place of worship and joy today in the Name of Jesus, Amen!

Victory Over My Egypt

Brian — Tue, 12 Apr 2016 16:42:47 +0000

So thankful that in August 1989, I took ownership of the sins I had committed against God. I confessed, repented and He moved just as He has promised.

There have been many ups and downs and even times where I longed for he Egypt of my past life. Yet God remained and continues to remain patient, steadfast and faithful to show me a better way. He has never ceased to teach me of the sufficiency I have in Christ. May my lips praise him forever!

Personal Reflection

Reflect today on God’s victory in Christ for you and His faithfulness. If you have trouble recalling. Find someone involved in your life that could help. It’s incredibly healthy to spend time remembering your Egypt as well as the freedom and victory you now have!

Prayer Focus

LORD we praise you with our whole hearts for your victory in Jesus! You have brought us out of bondage and given us sonship. You are mighty, faithful, and your compassion never ends. May our lips praise you now and forever more! In Jesus Name, Amen!

@brianfriedl

#victoryinJesus #freedomforever #truthtalk4life

Free To Love

Brian — Wed, 30 Mar 2016 05:54:28 +0000

We were not set free so we could freely satisfy our flesh. No, instead we were freed that we might bring the message of freedom to others as well as love and serve them.

Satisfying the flesh never leads to freedom but instead draws us back to a place of bondage, keeping us from fulfilling the mission (Matt 28:16-20) He has given us.

When our eyes and minds are set on Christ and His mission, there is little time to be focused on our flesh and its lusts. God gives us the desires of our hearts, which in essence are His desires when we are rightly walking by the Spirit. Embrace His design for your freedom today!

Personal Reflection

Warning: these questions are tough and direct.

In what ways are you using your freedom to satisfy your flesh instead of for God’s mission?

What sins are holding you back from seeing God’s restorative work in and through you?

Confess these to your Father in heaven and ask Him to fully use the freedom He has given you for His purposes.

Prayer Focus

LORD, give us a right understanding of your grace. Help us to see your freedom with purpose and may our hearts be zealous for those you put in our path. Help us to Know, Live, and Speak the Truth, be equipped to Love and Serve, and Skilled to make a difference for you…in Jesus’ Name, Amen!

@brianfriedl

#freetoloveandserve

#missionoflove

#truthtalk4life

The Greater And The Lesser

Brian — Tue, 22 Mar 2016 11:00:09 +0000

As I was driving home this morning it hit me that the moon and sun are similar to the law of sin and death and the law of the Spirit of life in Christ.

The moon reflects and points to a greater light. It is not capable of extinguishing darkness. Even on the brightest night there is still darkness present. In the same way, even in our best attempt the law merely reminds us that darkness is present and we need a greater light.

O but what joy comes in the morning! The darkness cannot hide from the light of the Son! He has conquered death and all its chains. We are free indeed!

Personal Reflection

Spend time today reflecting on the freedom you have in Christ. You are no longer under the law, but under grace. You are free to obey and live in the Spirit! Let go of the mechanical attempts to obey and love the LORD your God and you will find obedience not to be a burden but a blessing!

Prayer Focus

Father we praise you in all your glory, for you have sent your Son, the greater light as a propitiation for our sin, once and for all conquering death and e to guiding darkness. We shout your victory from the rooftops to all who will hear. Great is your Holy Name! It’s in that Name we pray, Amen!

@brianfriedl

#Jesusisgreater #nomoredarkness #truthtalk4life

5 Day Cleanse Experiment – After Day 4

Brian — Fri, 16 May 2014 12:23:29 +0000

Discipline is something that seems to be a fleeting concept in our society. We only get doses of it when we see interviews of great Olympians or maybe attend a motivational conference. As Christians our lives are to be marked with discipline and self-control. These are a gift and our strength to carry them out comes from God.

I was reading in 1 Corinthians 9 this morning and came across this passage:

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win. Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They then do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Therefore I run in such a way, as not without aim; I box in such a way, as not beating the air; but I discipline my body and make it my slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified.

The word discipline literally translates to “bruise”. After reading this one question rang in my head. How serious am I about my relationship with Christ? Do I really make an effort to make my body my “slave”. Am I really making no provision for my flesh as the Word calls me to? Am I running in a way so that I may win? Or, do I quickly give in and let my actions fall under “I am a sinner saved by grace”. While the former is true, it doesn’t excuse me from giving everything I have to running the race.

This cleanse has been a challenge for me no doubt. I have realized that food is one of my subtle comforters. I must not let anything other than the Trinity be my comforter, lest I be disappointed and fall into sin. We must realize the hope and strength we have in our God above all else. Christ’s finished work at the cross is our ultimate source of comfort. May you find peace and hope in Him today as you make your body your slave to obey our Father in heaven.

AFTER DAY 4

Only one day to go. I have to admit I was slightly disappointed when I read that I should be feeling the effects of the cleanse and an increase in energy yesterday. In all reality the only thing I felt was hungry. While the rest of my family was having Ham, gravy, and mashed potatoes, I was having 10oz of shakes, and a small portion of fruit. It was really tempting to give in, but I was reminded of the above verse. I’m doing this to help bring my body into submission. I must discipline my body not to get whatever it wants but that it my serve my spirit who walks with Christ.

#cleanse, #discipline, #freedom, #victory