Thoughts for another day

December 2, 2011

Today's verse: Jn. 8:34. Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, everyone who sins is a slave to sin. (KJV)

(Pls. read the above before you read further. Thanks)

Have you realized the essence of what Jesus told the Jews who believed in Him (or for that matter, you who believe in Him)?  Simply that if they (you) believe in Him, they (you) will know the truth and the truth will set them (you) free.  Just as they were astonished at what He told them so might you be, saying, 'if I'm not tied to anything then how can I be set free?'

We need to understand that often, Jesus isn't talking in earthly terms but, spiritual realities in 'Spiritual' tones, difficult to discern in our sinful states.  In this context, when He spoke of them being bound to sin and hence its slave, they were shocked and it's possible you too are.  Then again, like the many who didn't believe Jesus and what He said, you may also say to yourself, 'I'm not bound to sin, so how can Jesus say I'm a slave of sin?'  But know this, even if we sin once, we're bound to it, just as a man tries heroin once, gets addicted to it; and even before he realizes, he is its slave and willing to go any lengths to satiate his need for a single dose.

The Good News Jesus gives is that when we get to know the truth about Him, or rather when we come to know Him Who is the 'Truth', then He sets us free; free from the cancer of sin, making us a holy nation; we who were a kingdom of dirt and muck are transformed into a kingdom of priests and kings before our Father in heaven because of the beauty of our Savior and Lord, Jesus.  So today, let's tell Him, 'yes Lord, I sin and am a slave of sin, but by your precious blood, I'm redeemed and free and I can stand before my Father in heaven in confidence for I know You are behind me.'