Voices of the Faithful - January 2nd (page 7)
God's Character: King of the Jungle
“But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself.”
John 12:32 (NIV)
Our family went to Lake Nakuru (nah-KOO-roo) National Park, where
wildlife was bountiful. We marveled over the massive rhinos and Cape
buffaloes. The impressive waterbuck, graceful giraffe and the tiny steenbok
antelope all gave evidence to our Father’s creativity. Awestruck, we
watched the sea of pink flamingoes, thousands upon thousands in flocks
flowing together, moving like currents. What gifts of beauty the Father
provides to delight His children!
As we drove, we scrutinized the savanna for a rare creature. The
barking call of a baboon was heard as we spotted a group of animals, alert
and intent upon whatever the baboon was announcing. They weren’t
the least bit distracted by us. Their attention was fixed on something
more important. With curiosity, we inched toward the hailing sentinel
who directed all creatures in one direction. What could command such
esteem?
Suddenly, in a bushy tree nearby, I noticed a huge, male lion in his
secret hideaway. That explained it all! The focus was on the “king of the
jungle”!
The humans in a white truck didn’t distract the animals. Their focus
was on the king, and nothing would change that. Their focus even
drew us to him.
The Lion of Judah commands and deserves the same kind of focus
from us. We must stay so intently focused on the King of kings that
when distractions come, we are not moved! For when our eyes are fixed
on Him, we exalt Him, and others will be drawn to Him ... just as the
animals of Nakuru drew us to the king of the jungle.
—Judi, Sub-Saharan Africa
King of kings and Lord of lords, I focus my eyes upon You today. Keep distractions
far from me. May I follow You wholeheartedly. Amen.
Read more "Voices of the Faithful" devotions from Sub-Saharan Africa.
