Development--Spiritual

​Dennis Rodman of the Chicago Bulls, is arguably the most controversial basketball player to ever lace up his shoes and play.  Despite his reckless behavior off the court on the court he was one of the best rebounders of all time—few came close to hauling in as many rebounds per game as Dennis.  This running tattoo-covered athlete pounced on loose basketballs like pumas pounce on their prey.  His singular focus and drive to snare a bouncing ball propelled him to the top of his game on a team whose superstar, Michael Jordan, was the consummate example of dedication to being the best in the sport.  

Meditation
Galatians 2:19,20-- For through the law I have died to the law, so that I might live for God. I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.
 
The Apostle Paul had a singular focus and a life-consuming drive.  His passion was to know Jesus Christ.  He was one of the greatest church planters this planet has ever witnessed.  When Paul wrote, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live but Christ lives in me,” he was not making small talk.  He was opening up his heart and stating emphatically, his agenda, desires, talents, education, family heritage, keen mind and savvy religious connections meant nothing compared to knowing Christ.  Paul’s ambition was never in doubt—he lived to know Jesus.

A thousand competing voices may clamor for your attention today.  Most of us do not sit on hillsides tending sheep with time to contemplate the mysteries of God and Who He is.  We move at a pace in life that makes fast food seem like a slow meal.  But spiritual growth does not come by catching communion on the run.  God gave us His Son to teach us about Himself, and what is important in life. The key to spiritual development is found in understanding God’s gift.  If we intend to grow, we must fix the eyes of our heart on Jesus.  We must consistently study what the Word says about Him, spend time in His presence, and be willing to listen to what He has to say. 
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Are you interested in escaping the plains of spiritual mediocrity? Dedicate time to fellowship with the Lamb of God who came to take away the sins of the world.  
 
Inspiration
Our aims in natural life continually alter as we develop, but development in the Christian life is an increasing manifestation of Jesus Christ.—Oswald Chambers in So Send I You
 
©1998 Daniel York  ARR. Reveration is the weekly devotional ministry of First Cause.  If you would like to receive these devotionals go to www.firstcause.org and click on the “Click here to receive weekly devotionals” box.  Unlimited permission to copy this devotional without altering text or profiteering is allowed subject to inclusion of this copyright notice.      
 
Ecclesiastes 12:10-The Teacher sought to find delightful sayings and to accurately write words of truth.  (Holman CSB)