The next topic we will cover is the question “Committed To God?” We will look into the areas of our lives that discourage or encourage our commitment to God. One of the most common issues we have with commitment is the work. Even in normal relationships, the idea of commitment itself makes people a little uncomfortable. Maybe its because of their past, things they may have experienced or the fact that it’s not as easy to step into a commitment. We can even go a step further and look at commitment in owning a home or car. Commitment makes people uncomfortable, BUT that’s only when they depend on themselves for the outcome. Proverbs 3:5-8 (ESV) says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.” It’s safe to say that the bible was written before any of us who are reading this was born. God put together a set of instructions (in this sense) to make the journey of commitment in Him easier.

First, lets break down what the word “Commitment” means. It is, “The state or quality of being dedicated to a cause, a pledge or undertaking”. In order to say that you are something, we first must know what that something is. The word commitment is a strong word, but even words like “dedicated” and “pledge” are also equally strong words that define commitment. The enemy’s job is to confuse and deceive. If he can make you “feel” like you are committed but you are not dedicated, he has you right where he wants you. This is the area where we begin to compromise or “negotiate”, if you will. Many of us have had that voice in our head that has said, “This is not going to offend God” or “God will forgive me”. The enemy wants us to become like the people spoken of in 2 Timothy 3:1-9 (ESV). If Godly marriage is an example to the relationship God desires with His people, anything other than this has to be confusion. Lets say that you received a letter saying you won 5 million dollars. Through excitement you began to make financial decisions that you wouldn’t have made before the letter arrived. Anticipating the money, you commit to things you know 5 million dollars can cover. But then you receive another letter 2 weeks later that says, “You must enter a drawing to win”. Immediately you look at what you have done. You “thought” you were receiving something that was due to you, but realized later its not for you. The consequence of your mistake is still there. You end up in debt, it begins to effect the way you live life and eventually you will have to do without some things. This is what the enemy does, he makes us feel like we are something but all the while planning our downfall. Committing to God also means submitting to God. Our “slips” are what the enemy counts on, as a moment to capitalize on.

Listen, I know this walk is hard and the enemy is becoming more clever with the way he does things, but there is something called the “Holy Spirit”. The Holy Spirit is our guide and it becomes the decision maker for our lives. Don’t be one of those people who “feel” they are Committed to God but are far from it, for they are NOT promised heaven. The enemy likes company and if your form of entertainment fits his, he will continue to give you what you want until you no longer notice God. Today, if your commitment to God is a “feeling”, lets move it into the area of a “knowing”. Hebrews 4:16 (ESV) says, “Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.” There is no greater love than the love Christ provides for His people. I challenge you today, to ask God to reveal to you “areas” where you need to change and improve but allow Him the lead in the restoring process. For our help is in the Lord!

Be Blessed!