LIBERTY

"So speak and so act as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty" (James 2:12).

 

In this verse, the words, "speak" and "act" are imperatives--they are commands.  We MUST speak and act (i.e. treat others) in the same way that God is treating us--not by judging and condemning, but rather by releasing and freeing.  In Christ, we are no longer under the law that condemns, but rather we are under the law that frees--the law of liberty.  If we are released from the penalty of sin and offence--then we must also release others from the penalty of their sins and offences against us.  God has given us His ministry to the world of, "not holding their sins against them" (2 Cor. 5:19).

 

Today, who are you keeping imprisoned?  Who are you bitter towards?  Why not release them today even as the Father has released you?  "Speak and act as those who are to be judged by the law of liberty" (James 2:12).  When you forgive someone for an offense, you are letting someone up--yourself!