Advent Living: Commitment

Psalms 37:5

The first step in doing anything meaningful is “to commit.” Without commitment, many task never get done and what is accomplished is only parts of what could have been. Some of the most successful business people, artist, musicians, and athletes are those who commit their life to their talent, demonstrating unto all that practice makes perfect. They daily spend hours in the office, studio, and on the practice field, only to show off their talent in just a few minutes in the concert hall, museum or stadium. Thats why there are only a few of these great men and woman in their fields. Many have the ability, but lack in commitment.

To be a good Christian and effective witness for Christ takes the same kind of commitment. Our scripture text say to “Commit your ways to the Lord.” When we do this we understand that it takes practice in order to reach spiritual maturity. Salvation comes to us freely, but sanctification is a daily, on going practice that begins every morning by “presenting our bodies a living sacrifice holy and acceptable unto the Lord.” (Romans 12:1)

There are three steps involved in committing ourselves to the Lord on a daily basis.

First, there is Looking to the Lord. We look to the Lord in prayer and listening to his voice by reading the Bible. This gives us focus by setting our eyes upon him and not the things of the world.

Second, there is Living for the Lord. Through prayer and listening to God we have the pattern given unto us on how to live for him daily. Purpose of the Bible is to lead us to and conform us to the image of Jesus. Just as he was the “word made flesh,” the word becomes flesh in us as we become doers of the word and not just hearers.

Lastly, commitment means Longing for the Lord. The Bible teaches us that the sure way to be ready for the imminent return of Christ is to live a holy life. By living a life of holiness, we are grieved by what is around us in this fallen, sinful world. This grief eventually lead us to desiring the new heavens and new earth that God has promised. It is then that we long for the return of Jesus to deliver us from this present world.

So commitment means practice. Let us commit our ways to the Lord today and everyday by Looking, Living, and Longing for the person of Jesus Christ.

Pastor Robby