Be Single-Minded

“That man should not think he will receive anything from the Lord; he is a double-minded man, unstable in all he does” (James 1:7, 8).

If we are double-minded, we cannot receive anything from the Lord. I love the way one Chinese expression describes the quality of being double-minded: A double-minded person has three hearts and two wills.
This mixed-up individual cannot decide how to feel. The person has three hearts—to which one will they listen? And with two wills, how can that person decide what to do?

There is an American expression that describes someone who is double-minded as a “person who runs in circles.” He or she expends energy, but goes nowhere.

God wants us to be single-minded. Single-minded people have only one purpose: Perseverance even when it hurts.

There can be peace when you rule out some options. If you are single-minded about being ethical, you do not have to worry about what you will do when someone tries to bribe you to be disloyal. You will not have to decide whether or not to cheat on your taxes. You will never have to wonder what to say to the married man who tries to flirt with you.

There is also a reward. It may not come today or tomorrow, but it will come. God promises. The Book of James reminds us that the person who perseveres under trial is blessed, because when she has stood the test, she will receive the crown of life God has promised to those who love Him.

God’s Word will not fail. Always commit to that truth single-mindedly.

Kimberly Snider is a missionary to the Philippines.

From “Moments for Moms,” a free email subscription.
Copyright (c) 2005 Women’s Ministries of the Assemblies of God.
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Maxim of the Moment

I’d rather be a failure at something I love than a success at something I hate. - George Burns