April 22 – Children of the Kingdom, Not Slaves

Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. – Hebrews 12:28, KJV

There are many who claim to follow Christ, yet their lives reveal little harmony with His Word. They do not delight in the truths of Scripture, for it requires a life of service they are unwilling to embrace. They shrink from the loving reproofs and the solemn, searching appeals of God’s voice. Righteousness is not their joy, and their choices are often ruled by restless human impulses rather than sanctified reason.

The way we serve God matters. A child who drags himself through his studies out of mere obligation will never taste the joy of learning. Likewise, a man who keeps God’s commandments only because he feels he must, will never know the joy that springs from true obedience.

True obedience is fragrant with a deeper principle—it flows from a heart that loves righteousness and treasures God's law. The very core of righteousness is loyalty to our Redeemer—a desire to do right because it is right. When God’s Word feels like a burden, because it conflicts with our natural inclinations, then our religion becomes an exhausting effort, a task performed under duress. Such obedience is hollow, lacking the sweetness of genuine love and devotion. The beauty and purity of true religion fade when our faith is driven by duty alone.

But when we are adopted into the family of God, we become children, not servants under compulsion. The love of Christ, once it enters our hearts, transforms the way we live. It stirs within us a desire to reflect His character, not because we must, but because we long to be like Him. The more we study His life with open, humble hearts, the more closely we will resemble Him.

The Holy Spirit brings clarity and light to every sincere follower of the Word. As we deny self by sharing our blessings and using the gifts God has given us, heavenly virtues take deeper root. Our patience grows. Our strength of character deepens. Our gentleness, kindness, and spiritual discernment increase.

Think of a train of cars—not only are they attached to the engine, but they also move forward along the same tracks. So it is with our lives. It is not enough to be connected to Christ; we must also follow Him, step by step, on the path He walked.

Who are we following today?