SUNDAY June 21, 2026

A Bondservant

James, a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ….
James 1:1

James, even though he was Jesus’ half brother, introduced himself as a bondservant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. I like that. He took no pride in being the half brother of Jesus. He only sought to be known as a bondservant. It shows us his humility. James placed himself under submission to the Lordship of Jesus Christ.

What does the word bondservant mean? We have to go back to the Old Testament to find its full meaning. You see, in Israel, a servant served his master for six years. At the end of that period, the servant could decide if he and his family wanted to stay with their master or leave. If he chose to remain of his own free will, the master would take his servant outside, drill a hole in his right ear, and place an earring in it. This showed that he had chosen to serve his master freely because he loved him.

I like what Pastor Chuck Smith said about being a bondslave:

A bondslave [is] one who lived completely for his master. He had no rights of ownership, could not hold title to anything, everything he had belonged to his master. He was there only to serve.

Some of the Apostles also used the phrase “bondservant” in regard to their call in serving God. They viewed themselves as God’s servants. They were not above the people; they served the people and followed Jesus’ example when He said: “...I am among you as the One who serves” (Luke 22:27).

Do you see yourself as a humble bondservant of Jesus Christ? All you own in this world belongs to Jesus. He makes you a steward over such things. Your very purpose in life is to know and serve your Master––to choose to serve Him willingly.

In the Church, have the right attitude. Be a humble, willing servant, willing to do what is asked of you. Follow the example of Jesus Christ. When you demonstrate servanthood to others, you show them Christ’s love.

True leadership is servanthood. Put the interests of others at the center of your decisions.
~Dave Ramsey~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!