The Law That Gives Freedom

Date: July 14, 2023

I use the BLESS method every morning for my devotional. 

B - Bible Verse
L - Listen for God's Voice and pray
E - Explore the History and meaning
S - Study the Key Words or Phrases
S - Summarize and Share

You can read more about it by going to: What is a Faith Journal?

B - Bible Verse: "But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do." (James 1:25)

L - Listen for God's Word and pray: "Dear God, as I reflect on James 1:25, open my ears to hear Your voice. Help me to listen attentively to Your Word and align my heart with Your perfect law. Guide me in applying this truth to my life. In Jesus' name, amen."

E - Explore the History and Meaning: The book of James was written by James, the brother of Jesus, who became a prominent leader in the early Christian church. In his letter, James addresses various practical aspects of the Christian life, emphasizing the importance of faith and the need for believers to live out their faith through their actions. He’s talking about the transformative power of God's Word, referred to as the perfect law that gives freedom.  The verse highlights the significance of engaging with God's Word, not merely as passive listeners, but as active participants. By looking intently into God's perfect law, which encompasses His instructions and principles, we experience true freedom. This freedom is not in the sense of doing whatever we please, but rather in living according to God's divine design. It involves a continuous journey of learning, remembering, and obeying His Word, leading to blessings in all areas of our lives.

S - Study the Key Words or Phrases: 

Looks intently: Implies a focused and intentional gaze into God's Word, indicating a desire for deeper understanding and revelation.

Perfect law: Refers to God's divine instructions and principles that guide our lives, encompassing His moral standards and teachings.

Gives freedom: Emphasizes that true freedom is found in living according to God's perfect law, breaking free from the bondage of sin and aligning with His ways.

Continues in it: Stresses the importance of ongoing commitment and perseverance in studying, remembering, and practicing God's Word.

S - Summarize and Share: 

This is a reminder that God's perfect law is not just a bunch of rules and regulations, but it's a source of freedom. When we dig deep into His Word and make it a part of our lives, something amazing happens. We find true liberty and joy!

Think about it: God's Word is like a guidebook for living our best lives. It's full of wisdom, advice, and encouragement to help us navigate through the ups and downs. And the best part? It's not meant to be forgotten or ignored, but to be put into action!

Imagine if we approached God's Word with a genuine desire to live it out. We wouldn't just read it and move on; we would apply it to our daily lives. We would be intentional about loving others, being patient, speaking words of kindness, and so much more. And you know what? It brings blessings!

When we live in alignment with God's perfect law, we experience His favor in everything we do. It's like the pieces of life start falling into place. We find peace, joy, and fulfillment as we walk in obedience to His Word.

Let’s dive into God's Word with excitement and curiosity. Let's not just skim through it, but let's study it, meditate on it, and put it into practice. As we do, we'll discover the amazing freedom and blessings that come from living according to God's perfect law.

Bible Cross References

Psalm 119:105 - "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."

John 8:31-32 - "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."

Psalm 1:1-2 - "Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD, and who meditates on his law day and night."

Matthew 7:24 - "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock."