Daily Devotional from Pastor Mary 07-14-23

Intro: On July 1st, John and I celebrated forty-five years of marriage. Yikes! Where did the time go? Over a lovely dinner, we reminisced about the many challenging experiences we had shared, as well as the joy of things we accomplished together. People who know us well will testify to how different John and I are in our natural inclinations, likes, and dislikes, but we are deeply connected by our commitment to God and to one another. Only with God could two young self-focused people like us come together and learn to become one in Christ’s love. (Please don’t ask me or John about the pain-scale involved in that process! lol!)

In Scripture, the word commitment communicates “giving over” something of value to another person. As well, commitment brings with it the responsibility to “practice” a certain pursuit. For example, when we marry, we are “giving over” [surrendering] our singleness [focused only on what is good for self] and now joining into a relational bond that considers what is best for two people.

In our passage today, David speaks about his commitment to becoming one with God’s Word. David knows only God can give him the right perspective and guidance for life in this dark world. It is through his Word that God initiates a relationship with us. God brings wisdom to our lives, so we can navigate the challenges effectively and learn to love one another the way God loves us. For the believer, Christ is our Bridegroom; through the Holy Spirit, we become one with him in flesh. We are the recipients of Christ’s affection and we are invited to focus our affections wholly on him. Let’s follow the Light of the World, today.

Psalm 119:105-106 VOICE
105
Your word is a lamp for my steps;
    it lights the path before me.
106 
I have taken an oath and confirmed it:
    I pledge to do what You say is right and just.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for initiating a relationship with your children. Help us to keep our focus on you and to remain committed to following your Word. Holy Spirit, we want to become One with Christ in your love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.