Commitment

What does "commitment" mean to you?

We all know the word, but do we really understand the meaning of a solid, unwavering commitment?

One of the scripture's clearest teachings on commitment is in Romans 12:1-3, where Paul calls believers to present their bodies as a "living sacrifice" unto the Lord. Think about that image. How did people in the Old Testament make sacrifices? They took them to the temple, surrendered them to the priest, and then walked away.

They walked away.

They didn't keep their hands on what they brought to the Lord.

They didn't offer it temporarily or expect to get it back.

They simply gave it up, trusting that God would honor their sacrifice.

Does this kind of complete surrender characterize your commitment to the Lord? Have you fully and completely given yourself over to His will, His guidance, and His purposes?

Many people can't answer yes to these questions. Hesitant believers may profess a saving faith in Christ, but it's almost like they envision a little contract between themselves and God. They think, You can have me now, Jesus, as long as you take care of me. If something bad happens to me, though, I'm going to take my sacrifice back.

Is your commitment contingent on God's blessings? Do you face your hardships with joy(James 1:2), or do your struggles chip away at your holy commitment bit by bit? Active, growing faith requires total surrender to God. Are you ready?