Freedom 

For freedom, Christ set us free. Stand firm, then, and don’t submit again to a yoke of slavery. (Galatians 5:1)

Scripture tells us that Christ has set us free. Today’s focus for ABIDE is a celebration of the freedom we have been given as God’s beloved sons and daughters. 

Opening Prayer 

Let’s begin ABIDE by taking a moment to quiet our hearts and minds before God. Simply, take a deep breath and exhale slowly. You may want to pray a “breath” prayer as you inhale and exhale, such as, “Jesus, you are Lord.” 

(If you are leading a small group through ABIDE, pray the next prayer over those you are leading.) 

Prayer:  Lord, we give our hearts and lives to you. We surrender all that is within us to you. We love you and we need you. Spirit, fill us and lead us as we pray. We consecrate this time of prayer to you. Remove any distractions and help us focus on you. In Jesus’ Name, Amen. 

Prayers of Gratitude 

Slowly read Galatians 1: 4 below and consider what we have been given as God’s sons and daughters. Let’s lift up prayers of gratitude for what we have been given and how our lives are forever changed because of the Gospel. 

Grace to you and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ, who gave himself for our sins to rescue us from this present evil age, according to the will of our God and Father. (Galatians 1:4)

Prayer:  Our Father, we are grateful for ___________________________________ (fill in the blank with whatever comes to mind that you are grateful for after reading Galatians 1:4). In Jesus’ Name.  

Prayers for My Heart 

But as for me, I will never boast about anything except the cross of the Lord Jesus Christ.  The world has been crucified to me through the cross, and I to the world. For both circumcision and uncircumcision mean nothing; what matters is a new creation. (Galatians 6:14-15)

As God’s sons and daughters, we receive salvation, a new identity in Christ, victory over sin and darkness and the promise of glorious eternal life – through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. 

Let’s “boast” (rejoice) in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ by specifically thanking Jesus for ways He has worked in your life to set you free. 

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, I rejoice and boast in you alone!  Thank you for setting me free from ____________________ (fill in the blank with ways Jesus has set you free – examples: the law, legalism, sins, broken relationships, addictions, fears, sadness, loneliness, etc.). In Jesus’ Name. 

Prayers for Others  

Brothers and sisters, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit. Amen. (Galatians 6:18)

It is God’s will for His sons and daughters to experience the freedom that only comes through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.  As the Spirit brings people to mind, let’s bless them by praying Galatians 6:18 over them. 

Prayer:  God, may the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with ____________________ spirit. Bless him/her with greater freedom in their lives and family. In Jesus’ Name. 

Closing Prayer 

Jesus, thank you for setting us free. You are our Savior, Healer, Deliverer, Redeemer – to whom be glory forever and ever! We celebrate you today and thank you for giving your life for us.  Thank you for setting us free. Help us to stand firm and not be yoked again by any type of slavery or bondage. We pray that our lives reflect the power of the Gospel as we walk in freedom. May others see the grace of you in us and also receive the freedom that you alone offer through your cross. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.