Mark Devotionals
[Please do read the passage before (or after) reading the devotion.]
It’s a question that we will need to answer sooner or later. What do I consider really, really important in life? What/Who takes the primary place in my life? Jesus and Scripture makes it very clear more than once that there was no place for more than one in a person’s soul – his/her very being. It’s either God or family (Luke 14:26); it’s either God or material/possessions (Luke 16:13); it’s either God or the world/pleasure (1 John 2:15-16); either God is our “treasure” or anything else/everything else is (Matthew 6:21). The sad part of it is that all the alternatives are what God gives us because He loves us! So, at every point Jesus asks that question, a fresh choice needs to be made every time. It’s those that have discovered that when they make the right choice – God – He gives us the alternative with added depth/beauty as well.
Prayer: Lord Jesus, forgive me for so often choosing the gifts you give me over you, the Giver. I did not realize that when I consciously choose you, life does not diminish, but actually grows. I don’t want to forfeit my soul, Father, even for things that seem good, but actually take your place. Remind me again and again that “He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all – how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:32). I want your life, Lord, that comes packaged with your love. Amen.
