Scripture: He did what was correct in the eyes of the Lord, only not with a complete heart. 2 Chronicles 25:2
Observation: Amaziah began his kingship of Judah by following God, but he was not really committed to God. Instead, he was only following the was and methods of faith. This is why he can so easily begin worshiping the Edomite gods later ... his heart wasn't committed to God.
Application: My love of God is to be based in heartfelt love, not just head-knowledge about God. This is the source of faith, when my heart longs for God and for his love, mercy, kindness, correction, and laws.
I feel I have moved closer to this in the last nine weeks, watching men like Peter, Don, and Robert grow. I have learned that so many are hurting ... some exhibit strength, some faith, some confidence ... but inside they are broken and searching for love, connection, and purpose. And I have seen God reach them all, and found joy in my heart over this. I have loved watching their transformation. In fact, I have begun commenting to others that it is wonderful to see their transformations while also stating that I do not logically understand it. I have found joy in God's love while having no mental understanding of how it works or why it came to pass.
Looking back, I see that a mental head-knowledge or understanding of God is always superficial. Knowledge-based faith is always more of a learning of the law, compliance with behavior, and understanding of facts. Doing what is correct in the eyes of the Lord "with a complete heart" is to internalize and live out that knowledge through my emotional self. It is to feel joy about Don's transition and delight by the total change in his smile. It is to see Peter finally come alive and sound like he owns his life. And it is to lament with Robert over his lost marriage and feel that pain.
Prayer: Lord, please continue to grow me. I remain yours, and my answer remains 'yes'. It is the will in my heart, and not just my head, that I may love others as your hands and feet in loving the world. Here I am. Call me. Amen.
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