Following Desires

"No one can serve two masters.” (Matthew 6:24 NLT)

I seek what I want. I pursue my desires. Right now, I want comfort, security, stability, peace of mind, health, and significance. These are all physical, earthly desires. Since most of my time and energy is spent striving to meet these goals, there is not much left for spiritual pursuits.

“A life is either all spiritual or not spiritual at all. No man can serve two masters. Your life is shaped by the end you live for. You are made in the image of what you desire.” (Thomas Merton)

According to Merton, we cannot be part-time followers of Christ. Either we are ALL-IN, or not at all. Either we are controlled by our earthly needs or our spiritual desires. Our thoughts, priorities, schedules, and daily routines are shaped by our end goals. Our lives reflect our aspirations. We are molded into the image of our desires.

We are created to desire God, to be molded in His image, to reflect His character. However, we got turned around and messed up. We look in the wrong direction for gratification, and all our striving still leaves us dissatisfied. God desires commitment, surrender, and intimacy. We can either be consumed by our earthly desires, or we can be consumed by God. Not both.

Lord, may we be molded and shaped by our desire for You; may we be fully committed to loving and serving You.