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“"The Primary Determining Factor"”

Thoughts for Today:

Isn't Paul's statement such a simple, yet profound truth? Paul didn't try to amplify his position, nor did he choose to draw attention to himself. Instead his focus was on the Cross, Jesus Christ as Lord, and being a servant for the sake of Jesus.

Not long ago I was speaking with a man who asked me what Christians really believe. As I explained about sin and forgiveness, he seemed to like what I had to say. That is until I came to the part about serving Jesus and making Him Lord of our lives. He bristled at the thought of giving up control. I told him the meaning of Jesus having Lordship is recognizing His right to rule because He created us (John 1:3: "Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made"), and He redeemed us (1 Corinthians 6:20: "You were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body").

It was a huge stumbling block for him, and one that ultimately caused him to walk away from our conversation. He simply didn't want to give up his perception of control. In fact, this same issue confounds a lot of people -- both Christians and non-Christians alike. However, in our passage today Paul tells us (through his own example), as Christians, the Lordship of Jesus should be the primary determining factor in everything we think, say, or do in life.

Questions to Ponder:

The practical application of the Lordship of Jesus could be shortened to a simple question: "Is this what my Lord Jesus would have me think or do?" (Romans 14:23b: "Everything that does not come from faith is sin.") Is the Lord truly in charge of your life? Are you doing what the Lord has purposed? What about your thoughts -- are they in conformity with His? Don't know? When was the last time you asked Him?

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.