Fully Committed

In my quiet time this morning I read a devotion by Andrew Murray, one of my favorite authors.  As it revealed some things to me, I want to share it with you in the hopes it will also trigger some thoughts for you.

The eyes of the Lord search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.  -  2 Chronicles 16:9

In worldly matters we know how important it is that work should be done with the whole heart.  In the spiritual realm, this rule should also hold true.  God has promised in Jeremiah 29:13 that "If you look for me in earnest, you will find me when you seek me."

It is amazing that earnest Christians, who attend to their daily work with all their hearts, are so content to take things easy in the service of God.  They do not realize that, if anywhere, they should give themselves to God's service with all the power of their will.  In the words of our text we get an insight into the absolute necessity of seeking God with a fully committed heart.

What an encouragement this should be to us to humbly wait on God with an upright heart.  We can be assured that His eye will be upon us, and He will show forth His mighty power in us and in our work.

O Christian, have you learned this lesson in your worship of God - to yield yourself each morning with your whole heart to do God's will?  Pray each prayer in true wholehearted devotion to Him.  In faith expect the power of God to work in you and through you.

Dear Lord, as Your eyes run to and fro through the whole earth, may You find me to be one with a pure and committed heart.  Show your mighty power in me.  In Jesus' name I ask this, amen.

As I read this I realized I don't do everything with a 'whole heart'.  Some things I've done just to get it done, without putting myself into it.  I think changes are in store for me!   I should do everything as unto the Lord and do everything with whole hearted devotion - no matter what it is.   Change is hard, Lord, so I am going to need lots of help from You!

How are you doing?  What is your commitment level to completing the tasks set before you - whether it be work, church - or even more important - your family?  Are you whole-heartedly meeting their needs?  What about your extended family?  Are you there for them in their times of need?  Yes, sometimes we all need someone to get in our face 'whole-heartedly' to get us back on track.  It may hurt, but be grateful when that happens - someone cares, even if they say they don't.   If you are struggling and hurting, reach out.  Hurt can cause you to do a lot of stupid things.   Let it go - all the hurt, all the pain, to the One who is reaching out to you.  Jesus alone is your Refuge, your Healer.  Turn to Him in your time of need.

Blessings!