Devotion in Worship – Part 2
Categories: Bible Study Lessons, Bulletin Articles, Church of Christ Bulletin Articles Tags: Devotion in Worship
Paul wrote, “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6-7). Prayer, supplication, thanksgiving are all mental efforts that require focus, attention, and devotion. Peace, the peace that Jesus gives, comes from such attention.
The beauty of Jesus can be seen in my devotion when I have His peace in my life. He said, “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid” (John 14:27).
The peace of the world is driven by the news of trouble and fear. The world’s “peace” is merely the avoidance of trouble or fear. “Give me my safe space!” This limited peace will never do because the focus continues upon trouble and fear!
The Christian’s focus and devotion is on Christ. His heart will not be troubled or afraid. Why? Because His attention dwells on Christ and God who gives peace to His heart through His devotion. Jesus knew this. So, he went up into the mountain alone to pray.
The choices are peace, joy, and love or anxiety, fear, and hate? We know what the world gives. We know what Christ gives. Where is our focus and our attention? How is your prayer life?
“More holiness give me, More strivings within, More patience in suff’ring, more sorrow for sin, More faith in my Savior, More sense of His care, More Joy in His service, More purpose in prayer.”[1]
“And when He had sent the multitudes away, He went up on the mountain by Himself to pray. Now when evening came, He was alone there” (Matthew 14:23).
God bless you, and I love you.
Kevin Cauley
[1] Bliss, Philip P., “My Prayer.” 1873.