Freely Speaking Audio Devotion

August 13, 2025

Welcome to Freely Speaking, an OHSOFREE devotional ministry where we share our hearts and trust God for transformation.

Today’s devotion is written by Tara Thompson.

“All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any” (1 Corinthians 6:12 KJV).

Have you ever taken on more than you can handle?  Or as the old saying goes – “bit off more than you can chew?”

I have found that over the past couple of years, I’ve said “yes” to more things than I should have, leaving me feeling unhappy, overwhelmed, and exhausted.  Most of what I said “yes” to was related to work.  That should be a good thing…right?

When I hear the word “self-control,” I think of avoiding harmful habits like overeating, overspending, or addiction.  But self-control isn’t just about saying ‘no’ to bad things—it’s also about keeping good things in their proper place. Even blessings like work can quietly take God’s place in our hearts if we’re not careful. 

Work is a gift and a means of glorifying God. Yet how often do we let work dominate our lives? In the name of providing for our families or achieving success, we can become enslaved to endless striving—working long hours, neglecting rest, and ignoring the relationships God has placed around us.

Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 6:12 challenge us: Is our work “helpful”? Does it glorify God, or has it become an idol that rules over us? True freedom is not found in doing more or accomplishing everything on our to-do list. It is found in resting in Christ, trusting that He holds all things together. Choosing to pause and be present with loved ones is an act of self-control that says, “I will not be controlled by my ambitions. Christ is enough.” 

Is there something—even a good thing—that has started to control you? How might God be calling you to practice self-control and trust Him more fully in that area?

Thank you for joining us today. If you would like to learn more about OHSOFREE Ministries, please visit us at www.ohsofreeministries.com.