This week’s devotions are based on Week 3 of Confessing Christ in a Confused World (WATCH HERE)
2 Corinthians 5:15 “And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.”
Many people think of Christianity primarily as a ticket to heaven. While eternal life is certainly part of God’s gift, life under God’s grace is much bigger than that. Jesus did not simply save us from something. He saved us for something.
Luther captures this beautifully when he writes that Christ redeemed us “that I may be His own and live under Him in His kingdom.”
Notice those words: His own.
In our culture, independence is often celebrated as the highest good. People want to be self made, self directed, and self sufficient. Yet the Christian faith begins with a different confession. I do not belong to myself. I belong to Jesus.
At first, that might sound restrictive. In reality, it is wonderfully freeing.
Imagine a train trying to leave the tracks because it wants freedom. The moment it leaves the rails, it ceases to function as it was designed. What appears to be freedom actually becomes disaster.
The same is true spiritually. We were created to live under God’s rule. Sin convinced humanity that true freedom meant independence from God. The result was bondage, guilt, and death.
Jesus came to restore us to the life we were created to live.
Revelation 1 says that Christ has made us “a kingdom and priests.” We are already citizens of His kingdom. We already live under His reign. Every day we have opportunities to serve Him in our homes, workplaces, neighborhoods, and churches.
This transforms ordinary life.
Changing a diaper can be an act of service to Christ.
Working honestly at your job can be an act of service to Christ.
Encouraging a struggling friend can be an act of service to Christ.
You do not need to travel across the world to serve the King. He has already placed people and responsibilities in your path.
Because Christ reigns, your life has purpose. Because Christ reigns, your work matters. Because Christ reigns, your service is never wasted.
The world often asks, “What do I want?” The disciple asks, “How can I honor my King?”
This is not a burden. It is a privilege. The One who purchased you with His blood now invites you to live as part of His kingdom. And unlike every earthly kingdom, His reign is marked by grace, forgiveness, and everlasting peace.
Today, remember whose you are. You belong to Christ. Live joyfully under His loving rule!
Reflect: In what area of your life do you most need to remember that you belong to Christ? How can you serve your King in a practical way today?
Prayer: Lord Jesus, thank You for making me Your own. Help me live each day under Your gracious reign. Show me opportunities to serve You faithfully in the ordinary moments of life and remind me that all I do can be done for Your glory. Amen.