Across the Line

A conference call we joined the other night brought up the importance of being "all in."

"I've played enough poker to know," we commented, "that once you go all in, you can't take back that decision."

Especially not at a formal tournament, such as inside a casino.  The last time we played, we were reminded in the opening instructions that once any bet crosses a line around the table, it's there to stay until the hand is over.

So an all-in bet is a big commitment.  And since our conference call was Bible-centered, we were discussing being "all in" in loyalty to God and Jesus Christ.  Let's look at a few Biblical examples:

Next the devil took him to the peak of a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. "I will give it all to you," he said, "if you will kneel down and worship me." - Matthew 4:8-9  (NLT)

Now hold on here - this is the devil going all-in?!  Yes.  Satan pushed against Jesus, during a moment of temptation - and Satan had the holdings to do that....

Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don't believe.... - II Corinthians 4:4  (NLT)

Satan is called this world's "god" - not the One who created the heavens and earth.  So the devil was able to push.  But Jesus was wise enough to turn it down:

"Get out of here, Satan," Jesus told him. "For the Scriptures say, 'You must worship the Lord your God and serve only him.'" - Matthew 4:10 (NLT)

Jesus put the worship of His Father first.  And if we're going to be all in, so should we.

Jesus replied, "You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul and all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment." - Matthew 22:37-38 (NLT)

God expects an "all-in moment" for each of us -- loving Him completely, not simply "betting the minimum."

Draw nigh to God, and he will draw nigh to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners; and purify your hearts, you double minded. - James 4:8 (KJV)

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There's straddling at the blackjack table, but not in poker - and not with God, either.

God is the best "draw" to be on, because He promises to draw close to you if you'll draw near to Him in a commitment of your heart, soul and mind - in fact, your entire life.  So since your life is "on the clock," what about it?  Will you go all in - for keeps?