Today's devotion is adapted from Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones sermon "The Spirit of Bondage” at mljtrust.org

Breaking Free from Bondage

"For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, 'Abba! Father!' The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him." (Romans 8:15-17)

Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones identified a common form of spiritual depression that stems from misunderstanding our relationship with God. Many Christians live with what he called "the spirit of bondage"—relating to God primarily as a distant lawgiver rather than an intimate Father.

This misconception transforms Christianity from a life of freedom into a burdensome religion. The believer sees faith as an endless list of obligations, prohibitions, and duties. Holiness becomes an occupation rather than a natural expression of relationship. Joy disappears, replaced by fearful compliance.

Paul reminds us that we have not "received the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear." The Greek emphasizes "fall back"—suggesting this legalistic mindset is a regression from the gospel's freedom. Instead, believers have received "the Spirit of adoption" that enables us to call God "Abba! Father!"—an intimate term similar to "Daddy" in Aramaic.

Lloyd-Jones emphasized that adoption fundamentally changes our motivation for holiness. The legalist obeys out of fear of punishment; the adopted child obeys out of love for their Father. The former produces depression; the latter produces delight.

The proof of our adoption comes through the Spirit's internal witness. He confirms that we are not merely servants but children and heirs—with all the privileges and responsibilities that entails. We share in Christ's inheritance, which includes temporary suffering followed by eternal glory.

Today, if you're depressed by the weight of religious obligation, examine how you view God. Do you relate to Him primarily as Judge or as Father? Are you striving to earn approval or responding to love already given? Remember that Jesus didn't suffer to create better slaves but to adopt beloved children.

The remedy for this spiritual depression is not trying harder but embracing your identity as God's child. You have been brought from the servant's quarters into the family room. Live from that place of belonging.