Devotion for Tuesday, January 3, 2023

“Jude, a bond-servant of Jesus Christ, and brother of James” (Jude 1:1)

We may not be able to definitively answer who this Jude was.  Is this James the brother of Jesus?  Is this Jude the Apostle?  The answer does not matter except as a matter of curiosity.  James is a slave (bond-servant) of Jesus.  That’s what the Greek word says.  That means Jesus is the master and Jude is the slave.  He is writing so that those who are being led astray may know the truth.  We are to be slaves to our master, bound by His word.

Lord, in this world which cries out over everything, slavery is not a popular idea.  But how can it be otherwise?  I will destroy myself unless You take over.  Let me not argue with You over what must be, but instead submit to You who is the author and finisher of my faith.  Guide me, dear Lord, in the way of truth so that I may understand more fully this journey on which You are leading me in this age.

Lord Jesus, You are the Master.  Too many think You are just a friend of sinners.  You are God-in-the-flesh and You have come to lead the way.  Help me to not get this one wrong.  Help me to understand that everything is, as it must be, in Your hands (Matthew 28:18) and that I must follow You wherever You lead me.  Guide me, Lord Jesus, now and forever.  Amen.