Total Commitment

Today, we’re diving into a topic that is crucial for every believer: total commitment. In our journey of faith, we often encounter various challenges and distractions that can pull us away from our covenant with God and each other. This blog post explores what it means to be fully committed, drawing from biblical examples and the significance of our relationships within the body of Christ.

The Importance of Covenant

To understand total commitment, we must first grasp the concept of covenant. It goes beyond mere agreements or contracts; it is a deep, life-altering promise. When we participate in communion, we are reminded of our covenant with God and with one another. This covenant represents our commitment to see the kingdom of God flourish on earth.

As believers, we are called to work together in unity to fulfill God’s purpose. Our commitment to each other is just as important as our commitment to God. We are in this together, and it’s essential to support one another in our journey of faith.

Scriptural Examples of Commitment

In the New Testament, we find two characters that exemplify different aspects of commitment: Demas and Epaphras. Both were fellow workers with Paul, yet their paths diverged due to their choices.

Demas is mentioned in Colossians 4:14 as a co-worker, but later, he deserted Paul because he loved the world more than the mission. His story serves as a warning about the allure of worldly desires that can lead us away from our commitments. On the other hand, Epaphras was a steadfast friend and co-worker who accompanied Paul even in prison, showcasing true dedication and loyalty.

The Cost of Commitment

Being fully committed is not without its challenges. It often requires sacrifices and a willingness to endure hardships for the sake of our relationships and our faith. The story of Gollum from “The Lord of the Rings” illustrates how choices can lead to destruction. Gollum’s split between good and evil reflects the internal struggles we face in our commitment to God.

When we commit to following Christ, we must understand that it is a total commitment. It means laying aside our desires and ambitions for the sake of our calling. Just like the chicken and the hog analogy, where the chicken makes a contribution but the hog gives its all, our commitment to Christ should be all-encompassing.

Understanding Our Purpose

Every believer has a unique purpose designed by God. In Matthew 16:24, Jesus calls us to take up our cross and follow Him. This call is not about bearing burdens; it’s about embracing our God-given purpose and living it out daily. Our commitment to this purpose is vital for our spiritual growth and fulfillment.

As members of the body of Christ, we are called to support one another in discovering and fulfilling our purposes. This journey is not meant to be walked alone; we need each other to grow and thrive in our faith.

Building Relationships Through Commitment

Real commitment requires knowing and praying for one another. It’s challenging to be fully committed to someone you do not know. Building relationships within the church community is essential for fostering a spirit of unity and support. When we invest time in getting to know each other, we create a foundation of trust and accountability.

Consider your neighbors and fellow church members. How well do you know them? Are you willing to pray for them and support them in their struggles? Genuine relationships within the church can transform our community and strengthen our collective commitment to God.

Lessons from the Lives of Stephen and Paul

The story of Stephen, the first martyr, highlights the ultimate sacrifice for faith. He boldly proclaimed the gospel, knowing it could cost him his life. In Acts, we see how he was filled with the Holy Spirit and stood firm in his convictions, even in the face of death. His commitment to Christ and His message was unwavering.

On the other hand, Paul, a driven missionary, exemplified what it means to fully commit to God’s mission. He faced numerous trials, including imprisonment and persecution, yet he continued to press forward. His life serves as an inspiration for us to remain steadfast in our commitments, regardless of the circumstances.

Conclusion: A Call to Total Commitment

As we reflect on the examples of Demas, Epaphras, Stephen, and Paul, we are reminded of the importance of total commitment in our walk with Christ. We are called to lay down our lives, our desires, and our distractions for the sake of our covenant with God and each other.

Let us strive to be like Epaphras, willing to stand by one another in times of trial and hardship. Let us be committed to our purpose, supporting each other as we grow in our faith. In doing so, we will not only fulfill our individual callings but also contribute to the expansion of God’s kingdom on earth.

May we embrace total commitment in our lives, knowing that it brings us closer to God and to one another. Together, we can achieve great things for the glory of His name.

Photo by Vonecia Carswell on Unsplash