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SLAVE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS
Rod ShimabukuroBut thanks be to God, that you who were once slaves of sin have become obedient from the heart to the standard of teaching to which you were committed,and, having been set free from sin, have become slaves of righteousness. Romans 6:17-18
As I’ve been reviewing notes from several commentaries and a Book of Romans class I took, I feel my spirit growing in understanding and knowing Jesus. Like Paul in the verses above - I say THANKS GOD - for I was once a slave to sin but No Longer! Thank You God!
This obedience from the heart Paul writes about is different from the obedience motivated by legalistic Jewish laws. The standards of the law became a rigid, ritualistic set of rules. Paul guides the Jews and Gentile Christians back into heart and faith relationship with Jesus.
Paul uses the slave language pointing out the call to switch allegiance. From being slaves of sin according to the law to being slaves of righteousness according to the grace of God and faith in Jesus.
As a SLAVE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS...
I really want my obedience to God to be from my heart - from my inner being, everything about me and who I am, surrendered to Jesus. I desire my obedience to be connected to love for Jesus - not requirements, job description, duty, obligation. Not motivated out of guilt, being a people pleaser, to prove my self or to be accepted or loved.
I also want my standard of living to be directed by the standards of Holy Spirit and His Word. I desire to be taught more about who God is, HIs nature and character - to grow in intimate love with Him - so my relationship with Him is close and deep. I want to be committed to deeper, personal Bible meditation and study.
Thank You King Jesus, for drawing me to Yourself. For changing my perspectives and attitudes. For changing my heart. For giving me a heart that responds to Your Spirit’s guidance and voice. Thank You for showing me, helping me to live as Your slave of righteousness. Thank You for helping me to obey Your voice with pure motives from the heart. Please continue to convict my heart and correct me towards becoming more like You!
