DEVOTIONS FROM PASTOR RALPH

“Paul, a bond-servant of Christ Jesus” {Romans 1:1a}

On the road to Damascus when Paul came face to face with the risen Christ he asked two questions, "Who art thou Lord" and "What will thou have me to do"

(Acts 9:4-6 KJV}. The first is when Paul came to know Jesus as Savior. The second question is when Paul surrendered and became the bond-servant of

Christ.

William Barclay says a look at the slave market of Paul's day shows more clearly what Paul meant when he said he was a "slave of Jesus Christ."

1. The slave was owned by his master; he was totally possessed by his master.

2. The slave existed for his master and he had no other reason for existence.

3. The slave served his master and he existed only for the purpose of service.

4. The slave's will belonged to his master. (2 Cor. 10:5).

5, There is a fifth and most precious thing that Paul meant by "a slave of Jesus Christ"; He meant that he had the highest and most honored and kingly

profession in all the world. Men of God, the greatest men of history, have always been called "the servants of God"; It was the highest title of honor. The believer's slavery to Jesus Christ is no cringing, cowardly, or shameful subjection. It is the position of honor—the honor that bestows upon a man the privileges and responsibilities of serving the King of kings and Lord of lords.

Moses was the slave of God (Deut. 34:5; Psalm 105:26; Malachi 4:4). Joshua was the slave of God (Joshua 24:29).David was the slave of God (2 Samuel 3:18; Psalm 78:70).Paul was the slave of Jesus Christ (Romans 1:1; Phil. 1:1; Titus 1:1).James was the slave of God (James 1:1).

Peter was the slave of Jesus Christ (2 Peter 1:1) Jude was the slave of God (Jude 1). The prophets were the slaves of God (Amos 3.7; Jeremiah 7:25). Finally, all believers are said to be the slaves of Jesus Christ (Acts 2:18; 1 Cor. 7:22; Ephes.6:6; Col. 4:12; 2 Tim. 2:24).

It's a testimony of love in its highest degree.

Are you a bond-servant of Christ? I’m not asking if you have received Him as Savior but have you surrendered your life, your thoughts, your words, your

actions, your behavior, your attitudes, your wants and desires; have you surrendered all things over to Him? That is what it means to be a bond-servant.

As bond-servants of the Lord our only right is to yield all things over to Him up to and including our lives. God wants to use you and me for His glory in ways that we have yet to envision or imagine yet we have not fully surrendered to Him. God can't entrust us with more until we surrender more, more of us. Are we willing to surrender to the point of enslavement to Christ. It's only there that God can begin to do with us as he desires. He will not force himself on anyone but those who are willing to be both saved and enslaved, it is to them and through them he will do great things.

Will you surrender your life today to him and be saved? We cannot be en-slaved until we are saved. We can’t be raised up until we have knelt down. We cannot

be used greatly by God until we surrender all to God. We cannot find Victory until we have admitted defeat. If you are saved are you en-slaved? Is there something you need to lay before him today and say here you go Lord, you're my master. You're the master of my soul, the master of life, the master of my relationships, the master of my time, the master of my talents, the master of treasures, You are the Master and I am the servant, do as you will. And would you dare ask him, Master, This thing I am doing with my life, does it please you? There are three kinds of people in this world. Those who are lost in

sin and in need of a Savior, those who are saved by grace but not yet surrendered, and those who are saved and en-slaved (surrendered) to service.

How I pray that we all have decided once and for all time that we will serve Him above all.

Lord, search me and try me, see if there is any wicked way in me. Is there anything in my life that I have not fully surrendered over to you. I want my life, my very existence, to be all about you. May your light and your glory shine through me. I pray that I would be a man {woman} completely and totally surrendered to you. “I have been crucified with Christ, and it is no longer I who live, but Christ that lives in me, and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me” {Galatians 2:20}. In Christ’s Name, AMEN.

Scripture:

‭Romans 1:16-17 (NASB)

[16] For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. [17] For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written: “But the righteous one will live by faith.”

Paul boldly declares his confidence in the gospel. He is "not ashamed" of the good news of Jesus Christ because he recognizes its profound power—the power of God to bring salvation to everyone who believes. This boldness is rooted in a deep understanding of the gospel's transformative nature.

It is not merely a message of moral improvement or ethical guidelines; it is the very power of God at work, offering salvation and revealing His righteousness. 

Paul's statement emphasizes that salvation is available to all: "first to the Jew, then to the Gentile." This inclusion highlights the universal scope of God's plan and the breaking down of barriers that once divided people. The gospel is not exclusive to a particular ethnicity or social group; it is the divine invitation to every person to experience God's saving grace.

The concept of "righteousness" is not something we earn through our deeds; it is a gift from God, revealed in the gospel and received by faith. This faith is not a one-time event but a continuous way of life: "The righteous will live by faith."

Living by faith means trusting in God's promises, relying on His grace, and walking in the light of His truth daily.

Application:

1. Pray for Boldness in Sharing the Gospel: Just as Paul was unashamed of the gospel, we are called to be bold in our faith. In a world that often challenges or dismisses our beliefs, we should stand firm and confident in the transformimg power of the gospel.

This might mean sharing our faith with friends, family, or coworkers, or simply living out our beliefs in a way that others can see Christ in us.

2. Inclusivity of the Gospel:

Reflect on the inclusivity of the gospel. It is for everyone, regardless of their background, culture, or past mistakes. As believers, we should extend this same inclusive love and grace to others, as it was extended to us.  We should seek to break down barriers and invite all to experience the love of Christ regardless of who they are or what they've done. 

Inclusivity means we estend the love, grace, and mercy of God, in Christ, to all men even as it was extended to us.

3. Living by Faith:

Consider what it means to live by faith. This involves trusting God in all circumstances, even when we don't understand His plans. It means seeking His guidance through prayer, scripture, worship, and allowing His righteousness, through the Holy Spirit in us,  to guide our actions and decisions.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the powerful message of the gospel. Help us to never be ashamed and always bold in sharing Your truth and love, available through Christ alone, with all people. May we embrace the inclusivity of Your uncomditional love and extend it to everyone we meet. Teach us to live by faith, trusting in Your Word, depending upon Your righteousness, and walking in Your ways daily.

In Jesus' name, Amen. 

Scripture:

‭Galatians 2:20 (AMP‬)

I have been crucified with Christ [that is, in Him I have shared His crucifixion]; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body I live by faith [by adhering to, relying on, and completely trusting] in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.

Paul expresses a profound truth about the Christian life. He begins by declaring, "I have been crucified with Christ."  It signifies the believer's union with Christ in His death. When Jesus died on the cross, He not only paid the penalty for our sins, but He also put to death our old, sinful nature.  As followers of Christ, we are called to identify with this reality, recognizing that our former self, enslaved to sin, has been crucified with Him.

Paul continues, "I no longer live, but Christ lives in me." This speaks to the transformation that takes place in the life of a believer. Our identity is no longer rooted in our own efforts or achievements; instead, it is Christ who lives in us. This indwelling presence of Christ empowers us to live in a way that reflects His character and love. It is a daily surrender, allowing His Holy Spirit to guide and shape our thoughts, words, and actions.

"The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God." Faith is central to our new life in Christ. It is not merely a one-time decision, but an ongoing trust in Jesus. We depend on Him for strength, wisdom, and grace to navigate the challenges of life. Our faith is not based on our feelings or circumstances, but on the unchanging truth of who Jesus is and what He has done for us.

Paul concludes with a powerful reminder: Jesus "loved me and gave himself for me." The motivation for our faith and the source of our strength is the love of Christ. His sacrificial love demonstrated on the cross (Romans 5:8) is the foundation of our new identity and the driving force behind our daily walk with Him.

Application:

1. Embrace Your Life in Christ:

Reflect on the truth that your old self has been crucified with Christ. Consider what it means to no longer live for yourself, but for Christ who lives in you.

2.  Walk by Faith not by Sight:

Trust in Jesus daily, relying on His strength and guidance. Let your faith influence every aspect of your life, from your decisions to your interactions with others.

3.  Never Forget His Unconditional Love:

Keep in mind the incredible love Jesus has for you. Let His love be the motivation for all that you do, and let it fill you with gratitude and joy.

Prayer:  Lord Jesus, thank You for loving me and giving Yourself for me. Help me to remember that my old self has been crucified with You, and that You now live in me. Strengthen my faith so that I may trust You in every area of my life. May Your love guide and motivate me each day, and may my life reflect Your presence in all that I do.  Amen. 

1. Freedom through Christ

(Galatians 5:1)

   "It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." (Galatians 5:1, NIV)

Just as Christ offers spiritual freedom from sin, America's founders sought freedom from tyranny. The Declaration of Independence proclaimed liberty, echoing the desire for all to be free. As we celebrate our national independence, let us remember the ultimate freedom found in Christ, who liberates us from sin's bondage.

2. Responsibility as Citizens

(Romans 13:1-2, 7)

"Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God... Give to everyone what you owe them: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor." (Romans 13:1-2, 7, NIV)

Citizenship in America is a privilege and a responsibility. Just as Paul instructs the Romans to honor authorities, we are called to respect and uphold the laws of our land. By fulfilling our civic duties and actively participating in our communities, we honor God and contribute to the flourishing of society.

By the way, the laws of our land are built largely off the Law of God set forth in His Word.  When we obey the laws of our land we are obey the law of God and that pleases Him.

3. Hope for the Future

(Jeremiah 29:11)

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11, NIV)

  Despite challenges and uncertainties in our day, God promises a hopeful future for His people. As Christians, we look forward with hope, knowing that God’s plans for our nation are good. That hope may not seem evident at times yet nevertheless we can always trust God at His Word.

As we celebrate Independence Day, let us pray for our leaders, seek unity in our land, work together to build a future where freedom and justice prevail, and glorify God & exalt Christ.

As we celebrate America's independence, let us remember that freedom is not free.  Our freedom in Christ was paid in blood by Christ Himself and the freedom we have as Americans was also paid in blood by the sons and daughters of this great land. This precious freedom comes with responsibilities as citizens of heaven first and as citizens of America.  May God bless His church and bless our nation.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father we thank you that in Christ we have been set free from death, hell, and the grave.  We also thank you for freedom and blessings we enjoy as Americans.  Father may we never forget the great price paid to secure those freedoms and may we not forget our responsibility to pass those freedoms on to the next generation.

Lord, we pray you would continue to protect and provide for this nation.  We also ask you to forgive us of our many sins and bestow your grace and mercy upon us.  Give us leaders that will seek your face in their decisions.  We love your Lord

In Jesus name, AMEN

Colossians 4:2-4; 2 Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving; 3 praying at the same time for us as well, that God will open up to us a door for the word, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned; 4 that I may make it clear in the way that I ought to proclaim it.

Reflect: 

In this passage, Paul emphasizes the importance of prayer in the life of a believer. He encourages us to be devoted to prayer, to be watchful, and to be thankful. Prayer is not just a ritual; it is a vital part of our relationship with God. It is through prayer that we communicate with our Heavenly Father, seek His guidance, and express our gratitude.

Paul also asks for prayers for himself and his ministry. He desires that God would open doors for the message of Christ and that he would proclaim it clearly. This reminds us of the power of intercessory prayer. We are called to pray not only for our own needs but also for the needs of others, especially those who are spreading the gospel.

When we pray we should:

Devote ourselves to Prayer: Make prayer a priority in our daily life. Set aside specific times to pray and be consistent.

Be Watchful: we should stay alert and be aware of the spiritual battles around us. Pray for strength and protection.

Be Thankful: Cultivate a heart of gratitude. Thank God for His blessings and faithfulness in our everyday lives.

Pray for Others: Lift up others in prayer, especially those who are sharing the message of Christ. Pray for open doors and clarity in their proclamation.

Respond:

Heavenly Father, We pray that we would always be committed to praying and seeking your face in every circumstance of life.  Regardless of our day, whether good or bad, may we call on you with complete devotion.  Our lives are truly in your hands.

Lord, May we be watchful of what is happening around us.  Help us see and understand that there is a spiritual war going on in the heavenly places and as your people we have been called to pray over our circumstances, the troubles and trials of others around us, and for our nation and world.

Finally, may we always take account of your protection and provision in lives and be thankful for the blessings of life.  You have been good to us, your eyes are watching us, and your ears are to us.  We thank you that no matter what we can call upon you and know that you hear us and you always answer our prayer in your time and your way.

We love you Father, In Jesus name we pray

AMEN

Further Scripture Reading:

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18: “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Ephesians 6:18: “And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.”

Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

May our hearts always be devoted to praying, seeking, and speaking with our heavenly Father knowing that our lives and our times are in His hands.  May we be encouraged knowing that He sees us and He hears us even when it may seem He doesn’t.  Let us be faithful, knowing that in His time, He will answer.