“If you love me you will obey me.” 1 John 14:14 (NIV)
Years ago I remember meeting with a young man in my church and telling him, “I’m sorry, but I can no longer meet with you.” I took a long sip of my coffee and watched as the words I had spoken sunk deeply into the heart of my dear friend across the table. “But why?” came his incredulous reply. “Because you’re not doing what I’ve asked you to do.”
Now, don’t get the wrong idea. I am not some overbearing, dictatorial drill sergeant. I can – believe it or not – actually be pretty patient and understanding with people. In this particular case, my friend had asked me to help him grow into a more spiritual Christian. I agreed and we started meeting for greasy egg & sausage sandwiches every week. After finding out more about his desires to grow, I suggested that he start reading the Bible and praying every day. He agreed and asked me to keep him accountable.
Week after week my young disciple reported that he “hadn’t been able” to read or pray during the preceding days. “Too busy,” was the reason. No matter how much I gently urged him, he just didn’t get it done. I decided that until my friend could prove to me he was serious, I needed to spend my time more wisely.
God tells us that if we love him we will obey Him. In my experience we always do what we really want to do. We make time for that which seems most important to us. Spending time in God’s Word and prayer are priorities that cannot be compromised. If you feel you’re “too busy” then, well, you’re too busy.
In the New Testament the Greek word for “Lord”, “kurios”, is used 617 times. It comes from the root word “kuros” which means “Supreme in authority.” Does Jesus have supreme authority in your life? Is he the CEO of all you do? Does he have a say in your schedule? Pencil in an appointment for the “Lord of All” today. He’s dying to meet with you.
Loving Jesus,
Bill Young
Posted in A Word from the Pastor