Captivated

I’ve had this word and this thought on my mind for a while now. The word is “captivate” which is defined in one place like this: to attract and hold by charm, beauty or excellence. Webster’s definition reads: to influence and dominate by some special charm, art or trait and with irresistible appeal.

I think David knew what this meant when he wrote…"One thing I ask of the LORD, this is what I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and to seek Him in His temple.” Psalm 27:4

This verse speaks of having a single focus..."one thing I ask." The Psalmist had learned how to enjoy God’s Presence. And what was it that he wanted to gaze or be “held” or “dominated” by? The beauty of the Lord; His charm, His excellence, His character, His irresistibleness!

I’ve been studying the captivity of the people of God again in Scripture and have been painfully reminded how susceptible mankind is to being held, imprisoned, enslaved or confined by sin, Satan or our own vain imaginations RATHER than being captivated by our breathtaking Savior. How it must grieve the heart of God to see us consumed with and chained to everything under the Son but Him.

When was the last time you took a good look at Jesus?

“For in him we live and move and have our being...” Acts 17:28a

“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ.” Ephesians 1:3

“He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all - how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?” Romans 8:32

What or who is captivating you? Lord, give us eyes to see more of Who You are...