What comes to mind when you think of the word "slave"? It is typically a derogatory or demeaning term, correct? You wouldn't want to be "owned by" or "in service" to anyone, would you? Well, believe it or not, you already are, Friend.
We find a few men in the Bible that took pleasure in referring to themselves as slaves...Paul, Peter, James, John, and Jude. They introduced themselves as "doulos" of Jesus Christ. They knew that being a slave meant they gave themselves up in service to God's will, and were dedicated to advancing His cause among men. 1 Corinthians 6:20 says "For you were bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's." They belonged to God and loved to make that fact known! These men were completely devoted and knew the benefits of being bond-servants of Jesus.
Earthly freedom is a myth. Slavery is unavoidable. In Matthew 6:24 we read "No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon." Freedom is not an option for human beings. We are either slaves of the Lord or slaves to sin. "But God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered. And having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness." Romans 6:17-18. Whom or what do you serve, Friend?! Even if you are a believer, the choice is yours to make daily. Why should you, like these apostles, find joy in being slaves of Christ? Because Jesus is the best of Masters. He loves you and wants to be your friend! "He is gentle and lowly in heart, you will find rest for your souls; His yoke is easy and His burden is light." (Matthew 11:29-10) He will provide for you and protect you. When you belong to Jesus, He belongs to you!
My question is, why serve sin when the Lord is waiting with open arms to grant you the gift of salvation and offer you freedom in and through Himself. Jesus Christ died for YOU!! He endured not only death, but "death on a cross"(Phil.2:7-8); meaning a slave's death. Crucifixion was a humiliating death reserved for slaves & criminals. "For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him." 2 Corinthians 5:21. Wouldn't you want to live out the remainder of your life in complete devotion to someone that endured a brutal death on your behalf?! All you have to do is choose Him; believe that He is, and always will be, all that you will ever need. Adore Him. Know Him. And live forever, free from the burden of sin!!! That is definitely something to rejoice over!!! "I AM A SLAVE OF JESUS CHRIST"...and proud of it!!
Find joy in Him, Beloved!
So I was doing my Bible study today and this verse popped off the page as words you needed to hear..."The eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him." 2 Chron 16:9 Your commitment and desire to know and love Him is recognized by Him and you WILL BE BLESSED AND STRENGTHENED! Its obvious where your heart is and He's looking for those just like you...you're precious and He NEEDS you! Love you dear friend!
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