One Lord

By Clifton Angel     What comes to your mind when you hear the word "Lord?" To some, it may just be another vain word in their vocabulary used to show amazement, surprise, or disbelief. To some, it may be an endearing description of God and Jesus that causes them to have comfort. How often, though, when you hear the word "Lord," do you think of a master to whom you have submitted completely the control of your life?     I want us to consider that in a world where there is only one true Lord (Ephesians 4:5), multitudes of people are submitting to "many other" lords. According to one dictionary, "lord" is defined as "someone or something having power, authority, or influence; a master or ruler." The Apostle Peter wrote, "Sanctify in your hearts Christ as Lord" (1 3:15, ASV). This means in our minds, the only Lord over our lives, thoughts, actions, and words should be Jesus Christ. But how often is that true?     Is it possible that some have sanctified in their hearts family members as "lords" more than Jesus? Looking back a couple articles ago, I urged us to see the Scriptural fact that there is one church. Yet, how often do individuals choose their assembly of worship, not on what the Scriptures say, but on where their family attends? Or, how often will individuals continuously skip worship and Bible class assemblies because they have to tend to their families? (Note: I know there are very special occasions where it is the case that one has to care for another who cannot care for himself/herself; I am speaking of occasions when we choose family over Jesus).      Is it possible that some have sanctified in their hearts hobbies as "lords" more than Jesus? For example, it's Sunday morning, and instead of getting dressed for worship, many are getting dressed for the deer stands. It's Sunday morning, and instead of gearing up for Bible class, many are gearing up for a day at the lake. It's Sunday, and instead of focusing on worshipping God and giving Him our all, we're still thinking about our college's game the day before and what will be the new rankings.      Is it possible that some have sanctified in their hearts riches as "lords" more than Jesus? In their minds, it is only the accumulation of riches which will satisfy their souls (Ironically, they will find this not to be the case even if they become very wealthy). And so, the accumulation of riches—whether it be money or possessions—is what controls these persons' thoughts, actions, and words.      Who or what is your "Lord" or "lord?" Paul said there is "one Lord" (Ephesians 4:5), and Peter urged, "Sanctify in your hearts Christ as Lord" (1 Peter 3:15). Is Jesus your motivation for living? Is He the reason you choose the words you choose? Is He the reason you do the things you do?

- Clifton Angel preaches for the Coldwater Church of Christ in Coldwater, MS. He may be contacted through that congregation's website: http://www.coldwatercofc.com/