Galatians 5:13-14 For you, brethren, have been called to liberty; only do not use liberty as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

I remember watching shows on the History channel about the end of WW2 in Europe. As the people were rescued from the clutches of a diabolical regime, they realized they had freedom for the first time in years. How did they act and what did they do? Well, alcohol flowed freely and there was a great baby boom the following year. In other words, they used their liberty to satisfy the flesh. Of course, they gave lip service to God for their freedom, but their actions said they were not truly honoring God.

When we first come into a relationship with Christ there are a lot of people who will lead you astray. We do not have the knowledge at this time to understand what and how we are supposed to live. The prosperity gospel sounds good to our flesh. Everything is supposed to be easy, and grace covers all the sin we could commit. Some then take the opportunity for the flesh. But this is not what God has called us to. This is why discipleship is so important. Experienced Christians can give wise counsel and guide us into a closer relationship with Jesus.

“You should love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus said this was the second greatest commandment. If we were following this then discipleship would be the biggest ministry in our churches. I, like many, experienced many years of wandering in the spiritual desert from lack of discipleship. I am so thankful for the men who eventually came along side me and led me in the right direction. They fulfilled the calling Jesus gave us in their actions to help me grow in my faith. If you are a person who is experienced in your walk with the Lord, take time to look around and see the people who are newly saved and help them in their walk of faith. It is the second greatest gift you can give them.