2 Chronicles 16:9 “For the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him.”
Garibaldi, the great patriot who led Italy many years ago to unification and freedom, said to those who would follow him: “I promise you forced marches, short rations, bloody battles, wounds, imprisonment and death, but let him who loves home and fatherland follow me.” It wasn’t an attractive political manifesto, but he was a realist. He needed full commitment from people who had counted the cost in order to have any chance in his aim to liberate his countrymen.
The Lord is looking for similar commitment from us. Today’s verse gives a beautiful picture of the Lord’s desire to strengthen and empower his people. His eyes are searching out people he can use – are you one of them? Is your heart fully committed to him?
A chicken and a pig were chatting by the farm fence when a commercial truck pulled up. Emblazoned on the side was a photo of some crispy bacon rashers and a few lightly fried eggs. The chicken salivated and said: “That looks so tasty!” The pig replied: “No way! For you it’s just a small contribution but for me it requires my very life!”
In a similar vein, a Greek shipping magnate wanted to demonstrate his loyalty to the king. So he asked the king’s secretary, “Would His Majesty like me to give him one of my ships as a gift?” The secretary’s reply shocked him: “No! The king doesn’t want that really. He wants you to give yourself as the gift. Then he will have all your ships as well.”
Will I present myself as a living sacrifice to God (Romans 12:2)? That includes my hopes and dreams, my frustrations and disappointments, my back account, hobbies, relationships, career, health, time and more. He calls for, and is worthy of, full commitment.
Lord, help me to surrender control willingly of every area of my life to you today. Amen!
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