Each week, we present a devotional written by one of our partners of One Community Church. This week’s inspirational words were written by Michael Butler and is titled, “Who Is Your Priority?”The Word:
And He was saying to them all, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross daily and follow Me. Luke 9:23 (NASB)
The Story:
Initially, I was pumped when I agreed to go on One’s first mission trip. The excitement quickly faded when I took my eyes off of God and focused on myself. I started agonizing about the long drive back and forth to New Orleans. I had little to no interest in sharing close quarters with others. I asked myself, “Michael, what have you gotten yourself into?” In preparation for the trip, I began to pray. I quickly came to realize that my thinking was totally off base. My attitude about offering my service was wrong. My physical needs had taken precedence over my purpose of being a witness for the Lord. Through this experience, I have learned that on this journey to be a true follower of Christ, my mind and heart must always be focused on glorifying God so that I may fulfill my purpose of sharing knowledge about Him with others.
The Reflection:
Daily, let us examine where our priorities lie. Are we more focused on our own comfort than working for Christ’s glory? How often do we forego an opportunity to do the Lord’s work to pursue activities that do not glorify God?
The Application:
This week, let us be aware when we favor our social, emotional, or physical comfort over serving the Lord. When we feel swayed to pursue comfort, make a conscious decision to serve the Lord.
The Prayer:
Lord, constantly remind us that service to You is central to all that we do. Direct us to focus on You so that we subordinate our comfort to Your work.
