September 5—A Pearl for Today
“Paul, a bond-servant of Christ Jesus …” (Rom. 1:1)
“Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus …” (Phil. 1:1)
“James, a bond-servant of God …” (James 1:1).
“Simon Peter, a bond-servant and apostle of Jesus Christ …” (2 Pet. 1:1).
BONDED WITH THE SUPER GLUE OF LOVE
We hear a lot about “bonding” these days. At the time of a baby’s birth, the new attitude is to have the father significantly involved in the process. Bonding occurs between father and child when that naked, helpless little human being cuddles closely to Daddy’s chest.
Bonding occurs between a husband and wife when they live out their vows to love, honor, and cherish. Genesis 2:24 speaks of this bonding, “and they shall become one flesh.”
John 15:5 offers a beautiful picture of bonding within the family of God, in Jesus’ words: “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me, and I in him, he bears much fruit; for apart from Me you can do nothing.”
There is great security in knowing that we, as branches, are bonded to the vine. This, by far, is the most important bond we can have in life. As we are bonded to God, we have the source of strength and grace to be properly bonded to our children and mates.
Another bond with the Lord is important. This bond is our choice. One of the favorite titles used by New Testament writers to describe themselves is that of “bond-servant,” a carryover from the Old Testament. In biblical times, when a servant fulfilled his period of service and was given freedom, the slave could CHOOSE to remain as a servant. He became a bond-servant of his master; voluntary service was his personal choice.
Exodus 21: 5-6 states, “But if the slave plainly says, ‘I love my master … I will not go out as a free man, then his master shall bring him to God, then he shall bring him to the door or the doorpost. And his master shall pierce his ear with an awl; and he shall serve him permanently” (NASB). These verses are beautiful. Because of love for the master, the servant chooses to become a servant for life. No wonder many New Testament writers referred to themselves in this way. They were willing servants of the Lord because of their great love for Him.
Spend time in prayer. Tell the Lord of your love for Him and your willingness to serve Him.
The savior never turns away a servant.
