2 minute read.
Daily Reading: Exodus 23:14-25:40 ESV, Matthew24:29-51 ESV, Psalm 30:1-12 ESV, Proverbs 7:24-27 ESV
Daily Verse: “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time?” (Matthew 24:45 ESV)
Doulos (1401): “a slave. Properly the “bond man” one who was in a permanent relation of service to another one whose will was completely subject to the will of another. The focus is on the relationship, not the service. Doulos views him in relationship to his master.”[i]
Bond with Christ.
When you choose who you will bond your life to, pick Jesus. Servant means “in a permanent relation of service to another…completely subject” to their will. In a world that loves to follow others, chase after the One who will set you free.
Becoming a slave to Christ means you place His will before yours. When making life decisions, consult with the Master. Connecting with God through scripture helps you discern His will for your life. Committing to putting God’s plan above yours requires daily steps of surrender coupled with faith. Deny your desires; embrace God’s.
Back to basics.
Returning to tennis as an adult, I played singles with Lynda every opportunity God gave us. As a tennis teacher, Lynda helped me develop my game. Whenever my friend began to lose, she would go “back to basics.” Lynda focused her mind on the elementary aspects of tennis. Racquet back, move your feet, eye on the ball; three things imperative to playing a match. She taught me to go back to basics whenever I felt out of sorts.
I apply the same tactic to life, focusing on the basics when I don’t know what God wants me to do. Lead with grace. Forgive completely. Love always. Basic tenants for following Christ, daily tasks God never changes.
Becoming a slave to Christ means making Him your Master. Giving Jesus authority over your life gives you a game plan. Jesus calls us to love God and others. Every day, you can ground yourself in those four words. In each situation you face, the question remains the same. How can I love them for Jesus?
Entering a relationship with Jesus will change your life in ways you can’t imagine. Applying the basics to your life will help you bond with your Master.
[i] Strong, J., & Strong, J. (2010). The New Strong’s expanded exhaustive concordance of the Bible. Greek Dictionary of the New Testament (p 72) Thomas Nelson
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