He First Not Me First

–giving no cause for offense in anything in order that the ministry be not discredited, but in everything commending ourselves as servants of God,

“Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus, to all the saints in Christ Jesus...” Philippians 1:1a

“For you were called to freedom, brethren; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” Galatians 5:13

There is a difference between being a slave, a servant and a son. A servant is unable to resist, is sold into unwanted servitude. A servant is one who has a choice, (in biblical times they may have been a slave set free who made the choice to stay as servant). We are slaves to sin until we become servants of our Father and then... He adopts us as sons and daughters!

“But when the fullness of the time came, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the Law in order that He might redeem those who were under the Law, that we might receive the adoption as sons. And because you are sons, God has sent forth the Spirit of His Son into our hearts, crying, ‘Abba! Father!’ Therefore you are no longer a slave, but a son;” Galatians 4:4-7a

Know His Word. Take care. Your servant & friend in Christ, Darlene

PS: New Prayer Request: Marilu -in hospital and will be for several months to ensure she does not lose her baby. She must lay still on her side which will be really difficult. Ongoing prayer requests: For God’s hands on the new USA political administration. Healing of Barb and Gary, who lost their jobs; wisdom for doctors caring for: Doris, David, Adrian, Randy and Michael. For new work projects for me. Praise: Lyle’s brother (healing well) and girlfriend (who’s stayed with him throughout the entire ordeal).