Back in the late 70’s, when I was completing my high school education, I used to spend many hours listening to the radio while supposedly trying to study. I had my favourite songs and would sometimes ring up the radio station to get a request. Around this time, one of my favourite movies was Grease, with John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. Their’s was a story of young love in the 1950’s and had many classic songs. At one time, I must admit, I could have almost sung the whole sound track!!!
One of the songs was called “Hopelessly Devoted To You”, a song that reached number 3 on the hit parade in 1978…and was an Academy Award nomination. In the song Sandy, sings of her devotion to her “true love” even though her feelings are not reciprocated. In the end, it all seems so hopeless…but at least the movie has a happy ending!
Hopelessly devoted to you? When it comes to devotion to God many people think it also is hopeless…we express our feelings, but if God is real at all, he is only watching us ‘from a distance’. This is furthest from the truth. The God I know is intimately concerned with every aspect of our lives but does not want us to just stumble through life without a purpose. He wants us to give him 100% of our devotion. That’s a big ask. Is there anything that you are 100% devoted to apart from chocolate? That takes a BIG commitment. It takes more than a feeling. It takes acting upon your decision – but not in your own strength; but in the power of God.
At the end of his life, Joshua reminded the people of all that God had done. But he also saw the compromises they were willing to make along the way. He stood before them with a challenge…”who are you going to serve?” If it’s God, then give him 100% – if not, don’t bother – because God wants your total devotion. Hundreds of years later, Jesus gave the same strong message to would be followers – to be a disciple is costly. So, before you commit, check the fine print; make sure you are willing and able to follow through with what is required – then give it your best efforts – and God will come through with the rest.

God Bless,

Tim Winslade.