Ephesians 4:1 (NASB)
Therefore I, the prisoner of the Lord, implore you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling with which you have been called,

Romans 1:1 (NASB)
Paul, a bond-servant of Christ Jesus, called as an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God,

Romans 8:16-17
The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, heirs also, heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him so that we may also be glorified with Him.

Paul describes himself several times in his letters as a prisoner or bond-servant of Christ. He also states in Romans 8 that the Holy Spirit testifies to us that Christians are the children of God, heirs of the kingdom.

So which one is it? As I read scripture and meditated on the many verses about this, I realized that it depends on who’s perspective we are talking about.

From God’s perspective, He views us as His children, with all of the privileges and rights as heirs of the kingdom. Even though we are His children, our purpose in everything we do should be for His glory. It is the view of a slave or servant. The master may ask you to do something that will benefit another person, but the slave’s reason for doing it is not to receive thanks from that person, but to bring glory to the master.

That is what Paul is saying. He loves the people and the churches that he is writing to. He prays for them. But, everything that he does is for Christ. He is not interested in accolades from the people he serves, but only the glory that he can bring to Christ.

When I serve others, is that my mindset? Is it all for Christ, or does it matter what others think about what I do in service for them? Does my position as a child of God, give me the right to expect glory for my actions? I have to admit and confess that my motives are not always pure.

Father, thank you for your mercy and grace that has brought me in to your kingdom. What an honor it is to be your child. Never let me misuse that in a way that tries to bring glory to me. Rather may I always think of myself as your bond-servant, always serving as you command, and always for Your glory alone. Amen.

Always praying for the glory of God,