Deeper Life #148

And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat.

—Luke 22:31

JESUS DEALT TENDERLY WITH THE infirmities of His disciples. He seemed to overlook everything. But He never overlooked the point that He was after—the eradication of their self-centeredness. He brought every one of them to the place where He said, “I count not my life dear unto myself; your life should be for Jesus only.”

Every one of His disciples was stamped with the realization of this truth: “I am Christ’s.” Jesus removed the self-centered principle from their hearts and implanted a personal, passionate devotion to Him.

May God the Holy Spirit drive this home to you as He has to me. We must live only for one thing: Jesus ever, Jesus only, Jesus all in all! That is what the Son of Man desires.

Prayer Thought: Implant within me, dear Lord, a renewed devotion to You.

SUGGESTED READING: Luke 22:31–38