Simplicity and Purity of Devotion to Christ

I am afraid, lest as the serpent deceived Eve by his trickery, your minds will be led astray from the simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ.

2 Corinthians 11:3

When I read this verse for the first time years ago, I remember being captivated by the words “simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ.”  Having attended church most of my life, and participated in weekly women’s Bible studies for many years, I knew the Bible pretty well and could answer most questions in the fill-in-the-blank studies without even opening the Bible if I wanted to.  At that time, I was attempting to learn another method of study that would enable me to study any part of Scripture on my own.  But I discovered that I was getting too caught up in the technique and lost sight of the purpose of studying the Word.

              Satan can use even something as necessary and valuable as Bible study to lead us astray from simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ.  Bible study methods are helpful tools to understand the Word of God, but I am reminded that the focus needs to be on getting to know God, what He has done for us, the promises He has made for those who belong to Him, and how He wants us to live.  God uses His Word to transform our lives to make us more like Jesus.

            I need to do an attitude check often.  Is devotion to Jesus my highest goal? Am I spending time in the Word to get to know God better?  Do I desire to know His will for each day?  Am I willing to obey when He shows me something specific I need to act on?  Am I depending on the Holy Spirit to accomplish what God is calling me to do? Do I love God more than everything and everyone else?”

            As believers, we can easily commit to many good things, both at church and in the community. I remember when my life consisted of Bible Study leaders’ meetings, group meetings, Steering Committee meetings, monthly gatherings for a special speaker at the church, and lots of time spent with friends who were hurting and needing someone to listen. Again, all these are good things, but I’ve learned the importance of asking God what He is calling me to do and then trusting the Holy Spirit to enable me to accomplish it.

            I encourage you to take time with the Lord and ask Him to show you what His plan is for you.  If we are too busy to spend quality time with Him, we are too busy.  Ask God for a heart that is focused on “simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ.”   

PERSONAL REFLECTION

What evidence do you see in your life that devotion to Christ is your highest goal?

Is there evidence that would indicate you have been led astray from that goal?

Ask God to help you recognize areas of your life that Satan can use to lead you away from simplicity and purity of devotion to Christ.