12 Speak and act as those who will be judged by the law of freedom. 13 For judgment is without mercy to the one who hasn’t shown mercy. Mercy triumphs over judgment
What does it mean to be judged by the law of freedom? The NIV translation: the law that gives freedom. The law that gives freedom is the Gospel, the God Spell, the Good news. Once we have accepted Christ as our Savior, we no longer fall under the laws of the Old Testament (and there were a LOT!). We have the power or right to act, speak, or think as one wants without hindrance or restraint is how freedom is defined. So, we can do whatever we wish to, Right? YES! But we want to speak and act like Christ would, because of the promise of freedom!
This thought process is so different from what the world tells us. The world tells us to be happy and do whatever it takes to be successful, no matter what, take care of yourself first, any other cliches that I can offer. True freedom though is found in following Christ and loving others first and well.
I sat and pondered freedom a bit as I was writing. As American’s, we tend to take our freedoms for granted. Our younger children don’t understand the sacrifice that has been made on their behalf to be able to live the lifestyle that they have, and it makes me sad. In our “me first,” get all you can culture. They don’t understand the mindset of someone that doesn’t know you giving their life, so you have the power or right to speak and think as you wish.
But, Christ knew us and all of the horrible things that we will ever do and died on the cross anyway for us.
My desire is for my life to be well lived. Lord, please let me speak and act today in a manner that pleases you.
The Holy Bible: Holman Christian standard version. (2009). (Jas 2:12–13). Nashville: Holman Bible Publishers.
