Mature Servants
A Slave’s Attitude – Part 1

Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:4-7 NLT

Key Verse: James 1:1 NLT

This letter is from James, a slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ. I am writing to the “twelve tribes”—Jewish believers scattered abroad. Greetings!

Starting a study in James, it would be easy to quickly read through the “introduction” in order to get to our study.  However, we must take note of James’ description of himself in the introduction: A slave of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ.  Don’t miss this repeated theme in the New Testament; early Christ followers described themselves as slaves or servants.  Jesus Himself, according to the suggested reading section for today, took on the role of a slave (Philippians 2:7).

In most cases, when we read the word slave or servant in our English translations, it uses the word “doulos” in the Greek language.  “Doulos” literally describes “one who gives himself up to another’s will; devoted to another to the disregard of one’s own interest” (Thayer).  James dedicates his little book to how to be good servants of the Lord Jesus; sold out to kingdom principles.

Think of all the ways James could have introduced himself.  James could have mentioned that he was step brother to Jesus; that connection to Jesus would carry some weight.  Modern publication experts might have advised James to mention, in his introduction, that he was one of the top leaders in Jerusalem—headquarters for the early church.  Yes, James had other credentials that might have impressed his readers, but James simply wrote: a “doulos” of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ! How do you think of yourself?  Are you a servant to Jesus?  Is that your attitude?  (Continued)

Father, I want to learn to be a better servant to you and your kingdom; please guide me.  In Jesus’ name, amen.