The Mirror of the Word and other works by C.E. White can be purchased on her website, cewhitebooks.com or on Amazon.

“Were you called as a slave? Do not let it concern you. But if you are also able to become free, take advantage of that.”

—1 Corinthians 7:21

Imagine this advice today with society’s focus on success, prestige, and accomplishment.

• Are you a slave? Don’t worry about it.
• Are you in a bad job? Don’t worry about it.
• Are you held back by your finances, your health, your family? Don’t worry about it.

It’s not that God wants us to be in slavery or to be held back (“if you are able to become free, take advantage of that”). What he’s telling us here is that our circumstances don’t define the value of our lives.

We tend to focus on all the reasons we think we can’t serve him well or do anything meaningful for the kingdom. God’s making sure we know those reasons don’t matter. In fact, the Bible essentially says, “Are you a slave? Be a really good slave, as if God himself were your master” (Ephesians 6:5; 1 Peter 2:18; Colossians 3:22).

The servant can be great in the kingdom of God. Those in poverty and those with terrible jobs, bad bosses, and difficult families can all be great in the kingdom of God. Our position, status, and power in this world are not factors in how well we can live for Christ.

Our circumstances might be less than ideal. He can use us anyway. He knows where we are. He hasn’t abandoned us.

Don’t focus on your circumstances. Focus on who you are in Christ. Focus on becoming who the Lord made you to be right where you are.

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