Morning Devotional

December 27, 2003

"Consulting the Father" 

by Don Emmitte

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I assure you, those who listen to my message and believe in God who sent me have eternal life. They will never be condemned for their sins, but they have already passed from death into life. And I assure you that the time is coming, in fact it is here, when the dead will hear my voice--the voice of the Son of God. And those who listen will live. The Father has life in himself, and he has granted his Son to have life in himself. And he has given him authority to judge all mankind because he is the Son of Man. Don't be so surprised! Indeed, the time is coming when all the dead in their graves will hear the voice of God's Son, and they will rise again. Those who have done good will rise to eternal life, and those who have continued in evil will rise to judgment. But I do nothing without consulting the Father. I judge as I am told. And my judgment is absolutely just, because it is according to the will of God who sent me; it is not merely my own. (John 5:24-30 NLT). 

With the New Year about to dawn many will be thinking about promises and resolutions for 2004. They will be as insignificant as changing a small habit to others as important as lifestyle changes affecting the rest of life. In either case, the most important commitments we might make deal with the direction God has for our lives. 

Stonewall Jackson received a note from his commanding officer, General Robert E. Lee. The note read, "Please see me at your earliest convenience." Jackson immediately began the 5-mile hike across treacherous and dangerous countryside. Shortly after he started it began to rain. It rained for the rest of his journey. By the time he reached his commanding officer's tent, he was exhausted and soaked. Almost too tired to walk, he stumbled inside and blurted out "I made it" to those inside. The General snapped back, "What are you doing? I said, see me at your earliest convenience." Stonewall Jackson stood somewhat confused and exclaimed, "Sir, your slightest wish is my supreme command."

Humans don't like to admit that we serve anyone with that kind of dedication. The truth is that all of us serve something. Sometimes we serve our jobs, our possessions or very simply ourselves. Many slip into bondage and serve alcohol or drugs or even just food. There is One that we can serve that will never leave us with regrets because He is the one that never changes. Jesus said, "I am the same yesterday, today and forever." His steadfastness endures and ensures us that our service is not in vain. 

What “orders” have you received from the Lord for this next year? Have you even consulted with Him to see what might be your next step in life? For the next few days spend extra time in prayer and seek His will for your life. It may mean very little change. It may involve a complete renovation of your daily patterns of life. Whatever the case may be, don’t delay in beginning to make those changes!