Our Daily Bread Devotional 31 January 2023 | Fully Surrendered to Christ
What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? – Mark 8:36
Today’s Scripture & Insight: Mark 8:34–38
In 1920, John Sung, the sixth child of a Chinese pastor, received a scholarship to study at a university in the United States. He graduated with the highest honors, completed a master’s program, and earned a PhD. But while pursuing his studies, he had walked away from God. Then, one night in 1927, he surrendered his life to Christ and felt called to be a preacher.
Many high-paying opportunities awaited him back in China, but on the ship home, he was convicted by the Holy Spirit to lay aside his ambitions. As a symbol of his commitment, he threw all his awards into the sea, keeping only his PhD certificate to give to his parents out of respect for them.
John Sung understood what Jesus said about becoming His disciple: “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” (Mark 8:36). As we deny ourselves and leave our old life behind to follow Christ and His leading (vv. 34–35), it may mean sacrificing personal desires and material gain that distract us from following Him.
For the next twelve years, John carried out his God-given mission wholeheartedly, preaching the gospel to thousands throughout China and Southeast Asia. How about us? We may not be called to be preachers or missionaries, but wherever God calls us to serve, by His Spirit working in us, may we fully surrender to Him. By: Jasmine Goh
Bible in a Year: Exodus 25–26, Matthew 20:17–24
Reflect & Pray
What do you need to surrender in order to truly follow Jesus? What are some personal ambitions you may be holding on to?
Father, help me to set aside whatever hinders me from fully surrendering to You.
read more:
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