Jesus answered, “The foremost is, ‘Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is one Lord; and you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.’’’ (Mark 12:29-30, NASB)
I love the game of golf, but I am not devoted to this game. Devoted is a strong word meaning something is foremost. Golf does not do this for me. I remain passionate about the history of this sport and grateful for the impact it has had on my life and ministry, but I am not devoted to the game of golf.
What gives your life meaning, and what are you doing about it? Ouch. I thought this was supposed to be a nice devotional that ties the game of golf to our spiritual journey. Are you afraid now that this message will convict you with these provocative questions? Well, that is my intention. It surely convicts me.
The reality is that God knows us and loves us anyway. We don’t need to do anything for God to love us more, and nothing we do will ever make him love us less. I suggest that we use this freedom to get better, because the truth is that we last forever.
This message may not be perfect, but I know it is the right subject. Passion. Devotion. Importance. They all go together. How do you answer these questions: What are you passionate about and devoted to? What is important in your life and why?
Before you get discouraged or lose interest in this devotional, answer these questions: What lasts forever? What if Jesus dying for me is real? What if God really has a plan after this life? Hopefully, you can see why this is the right subject.
Remember that his love for us is everlasting, and the journey never ends. Don’t get discouraged but by all means, get started. God works with those who want to get better. Jesus does not waste words, so let us not waste time. What we do now is the direct result of what God has already done in us. We will never arrive in this life, but we must all start here.
Philosopher William James said:
Jesus did not endure the shame of the cross to hand on a dull habit. If you don’t have the fever, dear reader, a passion for God and His Christ, drop this book, fall on your knees, and beg for it; turn to the God you half-believe in and cry out for His baptism of fire.
Ladies and gentlemen, this is not an obligation. Rather, it is the correct response in understanding that we were foremost in his mind when he sacrificed his Son for us. Really!
I know he loves giving his best to those who love him with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. So, now what?
Prayer – Lord, you know us. We are eternally grateful that you love us anyway. Show us the way.