I remember the first time I heard a preacher reference Bob Dylan. The preacher mentioned the song, "You're gonna have to serve somebody." If you don't know the lyrics, the song goes on to list all kinds of people. There are rich and poor, famous and unknown, religious and rebellious. But the point is that all of them serve somebody.
The apostle Paul would probably like that song.
We like to think we're completely free and accountable to no one but ourselves. But Romans 7 reminds us that the question isn't whether we'll serve. No, you’re gonna have to serve somebody.
Some people serve success. So, every decision is measured by their accomplishments. Others serve approval, living for likes, compliments, or the opinions of people they'll never even meet. Some of us serve fear and end up letting anxiety make our choices. Even religion can become a master when faith turns into keeping score and trying to earn God's approval.
Paul says that in Christ, we've been "discharged from the law... so that we serve in the newness of the Spirit." Reflect on that one idea for a moment. Discharged or released.
The old masters always demand more. Work harder. Prove yourself. Be better. Measure up. They never say, "You've done enough."
Thankfully, the Spirit doesn't drive us with fear, but leads us with love.
And that tells us God isn't looking for employees who are trying to keep a perfect work record. God is forming disciples whose lives are shaped by grace. Consequently, we don't serve because we're afraid of what will happen if we don't. We serve because we've experienced the freedom and mercy of Christ.
Dylan was right. Everybody's got to serve somebody.
So today, ask yourself a simple question: Who's calling the shots in your life? Whatever consistently guides your decisions, has your attention, and demands your loyalty has probably become your master. Choose the One who came not to enslave you, but to set you free.
Stay blessed...john
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