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COMMITMENT

By Jake Larson

I can’t tell you how many times in my life I have made a commitment to something only to fail before I even get to the starting line. If you are like me than today is a successful day—you are on DAY 1 of a commitment to grow deeper in your relationship with Jesus. You have logged in online and are actually reading these words, did you think you would get this far?

It seems very acceptable in today’s world to mean well but fall short of our commitments. We do this all the time with the food we will or will not eat, the exercise routine, chores, work related disciplines, and Bible devotions. It even gets to the point where we development a hesitancy to make commitments of any kind because they just remind us of our failures.

CNN reported that most people fail at their commitments (resolutions) because they do not have a clearly defined why. What is the reason why I must keep this commitment? Why am I doing this in the first place?

Let me give you a couple reasons WHY you should keep your commitment to Jesus over the next few months:

1.     Relationship with Jesus is EVERYTHING

The first and greatest commandment in the scriptures is simple and clear:

“AND YOU MUST LOVE THE LORD YOUR GOD WITH ALL YOUR HEART, ALL YOUR SOUL, ALL YOUR MIND, AND ALL YOUR STRENGTH.” [MARK 12:30]

Everything flows out of your relationship with Jesus. A growing relationship with Jesus has the power to heal broken relationships, strengthen your influence in society, overcome life’s obstacles, build character, resist temptation, love the unlovable, and define the purpose of living. When someone’s life choices result in a reckless life you can always look back to a slow drift away from Jesus. You were created to know Him intimately and personally and to walk with him daily.

To what extent is Jesus your whole life? What priority does he take in your day?

2.     In Relationship with Jesus you will discover your purpose

“NO, O PEOPLE, THE LORD HAS TOLD YOU WHAT IS GOOD, AND THIS IS WHAT HE REQUIRES OF YOU: TO DO WHAT IS RIGHT, TO LOVE MERCY, AND TO WALK HUMBLY WITH YOUR GOD.” [MICAH 6:8]

We are people who are created to thrive in purpose on purpose. In other words, when we are clear about our purpose in life, we excel. We do not end up where we are by accident. There are always tangible decisions and steps that lead us to our final destination. The truth is: In Jesus we discover our purpose and our steps.

The prophet Micah tells us that our purpose is found in doing right, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God. Our purpose in life is found in the heart and character of God. When we walk in His footsteps we thrive in purpose on purpose. What was Jesus’ life about? When you find the answer, embrace your unique gifts, and participate in his mission—you will find your purpose.

QUESTION TO CONSIDER

Take some time to journal and answer the question: Why am I doing this? What is my motivation for this commitment?

MY COMMITMENT

1.              Read daily teachings online

2.              Read and reflect on scripture: Bible reading plan

3.              Pray daily

PRAYER

Lord, today I place you first in my life and commit to connect, grow, and serve.