The Daily Devotional
Monday, December 15, 2025
Joyful Freedom: The Gift We’re Called to Steward
“For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters; only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love become slaves to one another.” — Galatians 5:13
Introduction
On December 15, 1791, the Bill of Rights was ratified, securing foundational freedoms that help shape American life—freedom of speech, worship, assembly, and a just legal framework to protect human dignity. During this Third Week of Advent, as the Candle of Joy burns, we celebrate not only civic freedom but the deeper spiritual freedom Christ offers—freedom with responsibility, rooted in love.
Reflection
Paul’s words remind us that freedom is never meant to spiral inward, but to flow outward in love. Our civic freedoms—enshrined in the Bill of Rights—bear the same weight: they are not merely privileges for personal gain, but responsibilities that safeguard the dignity of others.
Think of a busy morning at a four-way stop. Everyone technically has the right to move forward, yet the intersection only works when drivers practice courtesy, patience, and awareness. Freedom without care becomes chaos. But freedom guided by responsibility becomes a blessing.
In the same way, Advent joy grows when our God-given freedom is shaped by compassion. Christ frees us from fear, sin, and self-centeredness, not so we can do whatever we please, but so we can love as He loves—generously, wisely, sacrificially. The Bill of Rights protects our civic freedom; Christ calls us to steward it with justice, humility, and joy.
Application
Use today to examine how you exercise your freedom:
Do your words build up or tear down?
Do your choices bring dignity to others?
Do you use your voice to defend those whose voices are ignored?
Today, practice one concrete act of love that honors the freedom you have—speak encouragement, extend patience, or advocate for someone who needs support.
Conclusion
Bill of Rights Day reminds us that freedom is a trust placed into our hands. Advent reminds us that true freedom is found in Christ—the One who sets us free for joyful service. When we use our freedoms to love, justice shines brighter, hope grows deeper, and the joy of Christ becomes visible in the world.
Prayer
Gracious Lord, You are the Giver of true freedom and the Defender of every person’s dignity. As we remember the ratification of the Bill of Rights and the freedoms we enjoy, teach our hearts to use that liberty for love, justice, and compassion. In this week of Advent joy, guide my words, actions, and choices so that they honor You and uplift others. Let my freedom become a light that reflects Your goodness in a world longing for hope. Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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