Sometimes sin, addictions, bad habits, and broken relationships can seem like a prison. We feel helpless and unable to break free. Paul recognised the oppressive nature of sin, but he offered hope.

Faith in Christ and living in him meant a whole new way of life. Believers were free - they no longer needed as many rules and laws to keep them from straying, as long as they remained in Christ. And there were no longer barriers and exclusions between race, language, culture, gender, or social status. We could all do a lot better in the way we live this new life.

When someone tried to praise Jesus publicly, he brushed it aside. He told them who was truly blessed - those who hear the word of God and obey. Some people go through the motions of being followers of Jesus, even attending church regularly. But they fall short on kindness, compassion, generosity, service, honesty, and a host of other things.

What we do and how we treat others is more important than what we might claim to believe. A true believer is one who does what God asks. Our faith is expressed in deeds.