Devoted

Devoted (by David Peterson at The Rock Of Jesus Church)

Jesus is in Jerusalem to celebrate the Feast of the Passover and the Jews were persecuting Him for things He had said and done. In the discourse when He informs them of His relationship with God, He says in John 5:30; “I can do nothing on My own. As I hear, I judge; and My judgment is righteous, because I do not seek My own will but the will of Him who sent Me.”Jesus was saying that everything He did was dependent upon His Father’s Word and will. Jesus reiterates this in John 12:49 when He states; “For I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me to say all that I have spoken.” Jesus clearly teaches us that He was sent by Father God to represent Him and He was totally devoted to God’s direction.

Matthew Henry was a 16th century minister and Bible expositor who wrote famous commentaries on scripture. Henry once wrote; “To wait on God is to live a life of desire toward Him, delight in Him, dependence on Him, and devotedness to Him.” Henry describes the joy when we devote our lives to God’s Word. This is as Jesus taught.

Martin Nystrom wrote this inspirational hymn, “As the Deer”, based on Psalm 42. Here is the first verse and chorus;

As the deer panteth for the water

So my soul longeth after Thee

You alone are my heart's desire

And I long to worship Thee

You alone are my strength, my shield

To You alone may my spirit yield

You alone are my heart's desire

And I long to worship Thee

Nystrom captures the desire and delight believers find in worship to our Savior. Imagine seeking Lord Jesus just as you would for a cooling, sustaining drink that satisfies.

Let us pray: Saving Jesus, our devotion to you comes from our desire to know you, to follow you, and to understand your will. Bless us as we live out our devotion to You and Your Word. Amen.