Here’s an interesting question: “How many choices do you make that are actually being made for you?” Is it possible that choices we all make can be controlled by something beyond ourselves? The Bible says yes. 

We are all slaves more than we think. And everything pivots on who the master is. 

Scripture points to the “corruption of the world” that enslaves us (2 Peter 2:20). That master gets us entangled in self gratification. It addicts us with unholy pleasure. It infects us with what Coach Pat Riley calls “the disease of me.” 

Here is evidence of the corruption … We binge eat and drink like fish. We live for entertainment more than truth. We have affairs, even in our own heads. We lie, cheat, steal, covet, slander, exploit and even murder to honor this master as helpless slaves. 

Comparison to others eats us up. So does greed. The three “selfs” (selfish ambition, self-righteousness and self-justification) grow like monsters. Guilt and shame put us behind bars too. The corruption is real. 

But Scripture also points to a powerful solution to an escape from all of this — “knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 2:20). Honoring and following this Master brings freedom, joy, fulfillment as slaves to Another, and release from the corruption of this world. 

So let’s keep getting to know this Jesus every day. Let’s look for His every masterful move and listen to His every word. Let’s bow the knee faithfully to this Master to break free of the other. And let’s encourage others’ emancipation too. 

Here are some “quick hitters” to help you score:

• Read the Bible faithfully, daily. Look for Jesus there.
• Find someone who follows Jesus and walk with him or her. Two is better than one (Ecclesiastes 4:12).
• Make much of Jesus. Bring Him honor. 
• Pray. When we do, release and freedom, wisdom and power come. 
• Ask the Holy Spirit to point you to Jesus. He will. 

Reflect: Are you feeling entangled? What kind of enslavement has got you just now? What moves can you make to get to know Jesus better? And who can you invite to join you in this journey?

A prayer to consider: Father, this world is full of corruption. I see it around me and in me all the time. Release me from its deadly grip as I make much of Jesus. Therein is life, power and peace.

I’m so glad I can know You through Him. And Spirit, help me to help others in this rescue mission. Amen.