Definition:
Single-minded devotion refers to an unwavering and focused commitment to God, characterized by a wholehearted dedication to His will and purposes. It involves prioritizing one's relationship with God above all else and aligning one's actions, thoughts, and desires with His commands and teachings.

Biblical Foundation:
The concept of single-minded devotion is deeply rooted in Scripture, where believers are called to love and serve God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. This devotion is not merely an emotional or intellectual assent but a comprehensive commitment that encompasses every aspect of life.

Key Scriptures:

1. Deuteronomy 6:5 :
"And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength."
This verse, part of the Shema, underscores the call to love God with every part of one's being, reflecting a total and undivided devotion.

2. Matthew 6:24 :
"No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."
Jesus emphasizes the impossibility of divided loyalty, urging believers to choose God over worldly pursuits.

3. James 1:8 :
"He is a double-minded man, unstable in all his ways."
James warns against double-mindedness, highlighting the instability that comes from a lack of single-minded devotion to God.

4. Philippians 3:13-14 :
"Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have laid hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize of God’s heavenly calling in Christ Jesus."
The Apostle Paul exemplifies single-minded devotion by focusing on his heavenly calling and striving toward the goal set by God.

Characteristics of Single-Minded Devotion:

· Wholeheartedness:
Single-minded devotion requires a complete and undivided heart, as seen in the call to love God with all one's heart, soul, and strength (Deuteronomy 6:5).

· Focus on God’s Kingdom:
Believers are encouraged to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33), prioritizing spiritual pursuits over earthly concerns.

· Perseverance:
Like Paul, who pressed on toward the goal (Philippians 3:14), single-minded devotion involves perseverance and steadfastness in the face of challenges and distractions.

· Exclusive Loyalty:
As Jesus taught, one cannot serve two masters (Matthew 6:24). Single-minded devotion demands exclusive loyalty to God, rejecting competing allegiances.

Examples in Scripture:

· Abraham:
Known as the father of faith, Abraham demonstrated single-minded devotion by obeying God's call to leave his homeland and by his willingness to sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 12:1-4; 22:1-18).

· David:
Despite his flaws, David is described as a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14). His psalms reflect a deep, personal devotion to God.

· Mary of Bethany:
Mary exemplified single-minded devotion by choosing to sit at Jesus' feet and listen to His teaching, prioritizing spiritual nourishment over household duties (Luke 10:38-42).

Theological Implications:
Single-minded devotion is essential for a vibrant and authentic Christian life. It reflects a heart fully surrendered to God, resulting in a life that bears fruit for His kingdom. This devotion is cultivated through prayer, study of Scripture, and active participation in the life of the church. It challenges believers to examine their priorities and align their lives with God's purposes, fostering a deeper relationship with Him and a more effective witness to the world.