OUR THAT AND SO THAT

ohn 17:1 Jesus spoke these things and lifted up His eyes to Heaven, and said, Father, the hour has come. Glorify Your Son, that Your Son may also glorify You, 2 as You gave to Him authority over all flesh, so that to all which You gave to Him, He may give to them everlasting life. (Literal Translation Version, underlining mine)

Often deep truth is contained in the most common or seemingly insignificant words, and thereby most important matters are overlooked. In Jesus request in 17:1, and His statement in 17:2 above there is a that or so that which follows. “That” is a demonstrative word connecting what has been said to a reason, result, or purpose to follow. The proper and then naturally highest “so that” is the heart’s safeguard against operating out of self centered motives, and will keep us from false pride and arrogance.

The person who does not have a higher “so that” than their own gain, has or soon will, become a stagnant pond filled with self rather than a stream of life flowing to others. The proper “so that” in one’s life should move them from replacing God to revealing God. One thing is certain; you will always have a “god” to which you are bringing glory. The question is only whether that “god” is self or the One True God; the One who loves hearing the word “Father” from the person who has become, or truly desires to be His child.

1). When I am seeking something in my life, what is the “so that” which follows my request?

2.) How often does the “so that” following my request or desire have as its’ end an eternal rather than temporary purpose?

Father, may all of my “so thats” be a demonstration of love, even as Jesus’ were. Keep me from being stagnant in self and keep creating in me a stream flowing to the lives of others. Amen.

From your Father's heart, Dances with Jesus,