Paul was like a father to the Galatians and cared for them deeply. He pleaded with them not to return to their former practices of trying to earn their righteousness through the law. Even though the Galatians knew God and were known by Him, they were returning to the very lives of bondage.

Those who tried to persuade the Galatians were zealous to win them over, not to God, but to themselves. Even as believers, we also must be careful that our faith is built on Christ alone and nothing else (1 Cor 16:13). Our own efforts cannot save us, but it is only the finished work of the cross that saves. Paul was in pain, like a mother in childbearing, out of his deep concern for the Galatians. May we be prayerful for the church to be on guard against false teachers and rooted in the true life and freedom we have in Jesus.
Application: Father, help me to be on guard and watchful in my walk with you. Thank you for your work for us on the cross. May my zeal be for you alone!
One Word: Be zealous for the good and on guard