THE PRISONER OF THE LORD
Ephesians 4:1-3; 2 Timothy 1: 7-8
Paul was literally a prisoner. He was arrested as recorded in the book of Acts and imprisoned. He wrote most of his epistles from the prison. That was why in many epistles, he referred to himself as either a prisoner (Ephesians 3:1; 4:1; 2Tim 1:8; Philemon 1:1, 9) or one in chains or bonds (Acts 28:20; Phil 1:13; Philemon 1:13;, 2 Timothy 1:16). Metaphorically speaking, a Christian is also a prisoner of the Lord.
Who is a prisoner? The literal definition is a person legally committed to prison as punishment for a crime or while awaiting trial. But for the purpose of this devotional, he is person deprived of liberty and kept under involuntary restraint, confinement or custody. Prisoners are usually confined to a restricted space. It is a life of loneliness borne out of isolation. His whole life is regimented, supervised and rigidly monitored.
How is this relevant to us as believers? We are the prisoners of the Lord. Even though he saved us and translated us from the kingdom of darkness into his marvelous light, it is not total freedom. Our liberty is defined and restricted. “For brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another”. Galatians 5:13. We are free; yet we are prisoners and restricted.
As defined, a prisoner is confirmed to a space. It is true we live in a free world. But our movement is restricted. We can’t do as others do. We cannot go where they go; eat what they eat and keep the company they keep. We are a different species. It is like the British Royal Family. The family may “own” the country and be very wealthy and powerful, yet they live, as it were, in a glass cage or jeweled prison. Every movement is regulated. Their relationships are subject to scrutiny. They can’t marry who they like. They can’t do what they like. They are the nation’s executive prisoners even though they own all.
Dearly beloved. You do not own yourself. You are the Lord’s. You owe him your life and liberty. Let him regulate and order it. Submit to his rules and code of conduct. You know what? Prisoners are clothed, protected and fed by the authorities. That means the Lord will meet all your needs if you remain in his custody. He will also protect you.
MEDITATION: Safe in His Arms.
