The Spirit you received does not make you slaves, so that you live in fear again; rather, the Spirit you received brought about your adoption to sonship.

Devotion based on Romans 8:15

The story goes something like this: A former slave enlisted in the Union Army during the American Civil War. The longer he lived and fought as a soldier, the farther behind he left his life as a slave. One day his unit was passing by some prisoners of war. To his surprise he came face-to-face with his former master. The soldier’s greeting was powerful but brief. He said, “Well, Master, it looks like the bottom rung is on top this time.” His point was clear. The soldier was no longer a slave. The prisoner was no longer a master. The old relationship was gone forever.

As you read or listen to this devotion, some of you are under some extraordinary circumstances. Perhaps you just learned you have a tumor. Perhaps you’ve just been laid off. Perhaps you just found out your spouse has been unfaithful. Perhaps your son or daughter has just gotten into some serious trouble. Perhaps your best friend has just died.

In any of these circumstances—or a million others like them—fear can come calling, trying to regain its old position and reclaim its place as master.

But those days are long gone. Through faith in the message of sins forgiven in Christ—the Holy Spirit has adopted you into God’s family. Never again will you be alone. Never again will you be helpless. Never again will you be without the strength and guidance of the Almighty God.

And if you ever begin to forget that promise, take a good, long look at the cross of Jesus. Then take a good, long look at his empty tomb.

Will fears in your life come and go? Of course. But will fear be your master? Christian, you are a slave no more.

Prayer: