Undivided Devotion

Joshua 12-14; 1 Corinthians 7

“What I mean, brothers, is that the time is short…those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away…but that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord.”

1 Corinthians 7:29, 31, 35

Paul’s ethical teaching on marriage and sexual behavior was guided by a sense of urgency concerning the return of Jesus. Paul’s accountability to Jesus and his mission meant that civilian affairs had to be put in their proper place. Becoming “engrossed” in the things of this world can easily replace our first love for Jesus and his mission. For Paul, this even extended to his understanding of marriage. He chose to remain single in order to serve Christ. 

If we were to ask those close to us what they think we are devoted to, what would they say?

Do we live with a sense of urgency related to Christ’s mission-call on our lives and the imminence of Christ’s return?

“Lord Jesus, all I am and have is yours for your mission and glory.”