I Know None Worthy of You but Christ.
The Reverend Samuel Rutherford was a minister of the gospel in Scotland in the 1600's. Today, he is most well known for his letters, which he sent to a variety of friends and acquaintances. Hundreds of these letters survive, having been compiled into a single volume.
In 1637, Mr. Rutherford wrote a letter to the Vicountess of Kenmure. He concludes the first paragraph by writing, "I know none worthy of you but Christ." Over the last several days, I've been thinking a lot about this line and the simple yet powerful truth contained therein.
In life, we have many wonderful relationships and we pursue many good things. There is yet however only one relationship and thing that's worthy of the full totality of our whole heart, self, affection, and identity. The one thing is the Lord Jesus.
I know none worthy of you but Christ. This sentence is good for you to keep in mind today and always. For the Christian in Los Angeles County, there are bound to be many trials and temptations that will and do compete for your heart and affections. From the temptation of fame and seeking only after wealth at any cost, to the trials of seeking affordable housing and work in our short-term gig economy, living and working in Burbank and/or around Los Angeles can have many spiritual dangers. It is good however to remember that none of these things are worthy of our identity. Fame isn't everything, and being out of work doesn't reflect on who are. When everything is going well, there's nothing that can be gained that's of more value than the precious Son of God, Jesus. The only one who's worthy of receiving the whole of our lives and our very selves is the Lord Jesus. Keep from giving yourself to all others. The Lord Jesus invites us to him, saying,
"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light (Matthew 11:28-30, ESV).”
To the person who is not a follower of Jesus, the only one worthy of you is Christ. He is enough and all that is needed in life. As you look for meaning, purpose, and fulfillment, the only one worthy of you is Christ. I encourage you to read the accounts of the life and ministry of Jesus and discover for yourself that this is true. And to come to one of the meetings of Covenant Church in Burbank.
Samuel Rutherford's letters are a treasure trove for the person who is seeking to follow Jesus. All of his letters are available for free download at the link below.
