Devotion vs Devotions
Devotion vs Devotions
Most Christians have heard the term “devotions” and think of it as something really dedicated Christians observe—usually in the form of getting up early (at least half an hour) and using that time to pray and read scripture. There is nothing wrong with doing this. There is everything wrong with equating this with devotion to Christ. This is particularly important because true discipleship begins with personal devotion to Jesus.’
So, what is that? I have written on this before (not least in my books, The Essentials of Spiritual Health and The 21st Century Disciple). But it is worth another look. The difference between devotions and devotion can be the difference between faith and legalism. So, again, what exactly is devotion?
The dictionary defines devotion as “profound dedication”.
Dedication is the commitment of ourselves and our resources to something or someone. For the Christian, this means commitment of ourselves and everything we have and are to Jesus—not what we believe about Him, but to Him personally. Profound dedication is a commitment far beyond the norm. A commitment so deep, so intense that it comes from the depths of our soul and supersedes everything else. It is a personal loyalty that allows nothing else to come before it. It is a commitment to Jesus so basic and all encompassing that in everything we do or say we ask, “What does being faithful to Him look like in this situation?”
We may not all come up with the same answer to that question, nor is it necessary that we do. What is necessary is that we are asking the question! Nothing else matters. To the one who is truly devoted to Jesus, nothing we accomplish in this life—even if it is “for Him”—matters. The only thing that matters is the moment we physically stand before Him hoping beyond all else to hear Him say “You did good!”
The healthy disciple of Jesus prays, not because she is supposed to but because she is devoted to the one she is praying to.
The healthy disciple of Jesus worships, not to accomplish devotions, but because it is an expression of devotion that he cannot NOT do.
The healthy disciple of Jesus studies the Word, gives, serves, shares his faith and strengthens other disciples because these are natural expressions of our devotion to Jesus.
The healthy disciple of Jesus is not concerned about whether their obedient response to Him is out of a sense of duty or not—only that obedience is the clearest way to express our devotion—our love—for Him.
I confess that I frequently see people who say they are Christ-followers, but whose lives show no sign of devotion to Jesus. I do not write this to judge them—that is not my place—but to warn them. Discipleship is not a matter of identifying with Jesus publicly (though this is certainly something a disciple will do) but of being devoted to Him in all ways.
This is love for God: to obey his commands. (1 John 5:3, NIV)
Know Jesus and Be Faithful!
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