A New Life in Freedom

It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. Galatians 5:1 (NIV)  To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow elder and a witness of Christ's sufferings who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care… 1 Peter 5:1-2 (NIV) Be Shepherds …watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you… 1 Peter 5:2-3 (NIV) Purify Our Motives …but being examples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away. 1 Peter 5:3-4 (NIV) Be Examples In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble." 1 Peter 5:5 (NIV) Submit to One Another Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 1 Peter 5:6 (NIV) Humble Ourselves Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7 (NIV) Cast Off Our Anxiety Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 1 Peter 5:8 (NIV) Be Alert and Sober Minded Resist him, standing firm in the faith… 1 Peter 5:9 (NIV) Resist the Enemy …because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 1 Peter 5:9 (NIV) Know that We Are Not Alone And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 1 Peter 5:10 (NIV) Expect God to Move on Our Behalf After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace [Who imparts His blessing and favor], who called you to His own eternal glory in Christ, will Himself complete, confirm, strengthen, and establish you [making you what you ought to be]. 1 Peter 5:10 (AMP)