Scripture

Our verse for today comes from 2 Samuel 15:13, ” Now a messenger came to David, saying, ‘The hearts of the men of Israel are with Absalom.’ “

Background

In the movie, Facing the Giants , the main character is a high school football coach at a Christian school. During his tenure, his teams have been average at best, with some squads struggling to be even that. His current team gets off to yet another poor start, losing to teams far less talented than they are, and showing no heart or commitment to the task at hand. One night after working late, he’s leaving his office and overhears voices from another room. As he draws nearer, the conversation becomes more clear, and he realizes that a group of the fathers of some players are discussing the team, and more specifically, his coaching. They are led by a couple of men who are adamant about getting a new coach. They insist that he’s had his chance, he’s not qualified for the job, and it’s time for a change. And as he peers further through the crack of the doorway, his heart sinks to its lowest as he sees the unthinkable – his assistant coach standing among the conspirators. 

Application

Now imagine if your son or daughter came to you, all grown up inside and out, and had something important to say. But the news wasn’t about a wedding engagement or a new job. No, they wished to inform you that they did not believe the things that you believed. What you had lived and taught was not what they had decided to accept and live out. They intended their heart to follow another master. For some, you’ve heard words similar to those. And to you, I couldn’t begin to know what to say. What would you not give up to have them reconsider? Would you give up one of your other children? We can all agree that our country no longer collectively seeks after God. But what we might not think about is how this indifference affects Him. He already gave up His Son to redeem us all, so it stands to reason that His heart still longs for us. But when He looks through the cracks of our hearts, what is the message that He hears from His people? 

Charge

As we seek Him today, let the doorway of your heart be completely open to all that God desires of you and for you. 

Salvation – Eternal Life in Less Than 150 Words