Love That Demands My All

In a recent conversation with my mother, she said she found herself asking God, "How much do I love You?"

It was a similar question rolling in the back of my mind of over the past few weeks. Do I love Him enough to chose Him over my thoughts and desires? Or do I hold him at arm's length when He wants to occupy places in my heart that I have long walled off. I have my reasons or so I think. It's too personal, too overwhelming and if there is any change to be made, it's too late.

Still the question remains.

Many believers have an understanding of God's love but tragically continue to live independently of His presence. Their understanding of God's love makes no demands in having a transformed life. Even those in the world acknowledge God loves them. But do they love Him enough to give their hearts to Him?

I believe God wants us to move past whatever knowledge we have of His love to a deeper more experiential understanding of His sacrificial love as demonstrated on the cross. A pure and holy love that will demand our very heart and soul.

It was the question that drove the young rich ruler to ask Jesus for the one thing he needed to do to inherit eternal life (Matthew 19:16). Scripture says, "Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me." (10:21 KJV). The young ruler loved God as far as it was within his own efforts and ability. He faithfully obeyed all the commandments. But to sell all, take up a cross and follow Christ required a love only God can give to a man or woman to do just as He demanded.

And then there was Mary sitting at Jesus' feet while Martha was fuming in the kitchen. Jesus said, "But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:42 KJV). Mary's adoration and love for her Savior caused her to exchange her duties for a moment to sit quietly at His feet. Love for God should never be a duty or an obligation but a gracious offering.

If the Holy Spirit is speaking to your heart about that "one thing" released it into His hands. The less of self means understanding more of His selfless love and love for others.