. . . that they may be one just as We are one . . . —John 17:22
Personality is the characteristic mark of the inner, spiritual man, just as individuality is the characteristic of the outer, natural man. Our Lord can never be described in terms of individuality and independence, but only in terms of His total Person— “I and My Father are one” (John 10:30). Personality merges, and you only reach your true identity once you are merged with another person. When love or the Spirit of God come upon a person, he is transformed. He will then no longer insist on maintaining his individuality. Our Lord never referred to a person’s individuality or his isolated position, but spoke in terms of the total person— “. . . that they may be one just as We are one . . . .” Once your rights to yourself are surrendered to God, your true personal nature begins responding to God immediately. Jesus Christ brings freedom to your total person, and even your individuality is transformed. The transformation is brought about by love— personal devotion to Jesus. Love is the overflowing result of one person in true fellowship with another.
_________________________________________________________
December 12, 2013-JDV
Lord, this has become such a regular part of my prayers …”please make me a man after Your own heart” that it sometimes becomes rote, routine; just another group of words to speak without truly embracing the impact. Lord thank You for waking me up to the idea and the potential impact of these words. As the song says today, Lord; let Your love take me over, and stand in my place.
And God says…” If you truly want to be a man after My own heart, stay connected to Me and avoid anything that will disrupt the connection. In your day to day eating, sleeping, working, living, and loving, be connected to Me offering up these life activities to Me. Seek Me first in all you do, and I will provide everything else you need. I have promised that all things will work for your good. Acknowledge Me in all your ways and I will make your paths straight. Delight yourself in the Lord and I will give you the desires of your heart. I know the plans I have for you and they are plans for good and for a wonderful future.”
