Day 3 – Slaves No More
Scripture:
Romans 6:16–18 – “Don’t you know that if you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of that one you obey—either of sin leading to death or of obedience leading to righteousness? But thank God that, although you used to be slaves of sin, you obeyed from the heart that pattern of teaching you were transferred to, and having been liberated from sin, you became enslaved to righteousness.”
Devotional Thought:
Paul doesn’t mince words here—you’re a slave to something. Either sin rules you, or Christ does. There’s no middle ground.
This is where many of us struggle. We want freedom in Christ but still cling to the chains of old habits. We “believe” in Jesus but keep feeding addictions to approval, pleasure, screens, or busyness. The result? We remain tethered to things that don’t satisfy.
Paul reminds us that Jesus didn’t just forgive us from sin—He freed us from its power. To return to sin is like walking back into a prison cell after the door has been opened. Renewal only comes when we choose daily to live as servants of righteousness rather than slaves to sin.
The truth is, every “yes” to sin is a “no” to God. But every “yes” to righteousness is a step toward deeper freedom, joy, and purpose in Him.
Reflection Questions:
- In what ways do I still live as if I’m a slave to sin, even though Jesus has set me free?
- What would it look like for me to offer myself as a “slave to righteousness” this week?
Prayer:
Jesus, thank You for breaking the chains of sin in my life. Forgive me for the times I’ve gone back to what You’ve already freed me from. Teach me to live as Your servant, gladly obeying You because Your ways bring life. Amen.
Daily Practice:
Every time you feel a pull toward an old habit today, pause and pray: “Lord, I belong to You, not to this. I choose righteousness over sin.” Keep a note or reminder on your phone or desk with the phrase: “Slaves no more.”