COMMITMENT

Recently I was made privy to the breakup of a young couple before it became common knowledge. They are Christians and are active in their church and small group. Yet, the man's sexual addiction that threatened them early in the marriage came back to haunt and eventually destroy what seemed to be a loving union. It lay dormant several years wherein they had two beautiful children and were living "the American Dream". Again and again we see this happening around us, even in the church. Satan is having "his way" with even those who claim be dedicated to God and walking the way of truth. 

I was so frustrated by this situation! There were probably others in the same boat: seeing the need yet not being close enough to the individuals to be a spiritual counselor. What were they thinking when the vow of "'Til death do us part" was made? Do we Christians not understand what a vow is? Can evil really overcome good like this? The questions go on and on and usually end with "Where were you God? Why didn't you stop it?".

In my case, the Holy Spirit started speaking to me of commitment. It's an issue we all should review and find our own understanding and, hopefully, fulfillment of it. There are many people and places that call us to commit: marriage, family, church, school and friendships. Most of all God, our Heavenly Father, Risen Savior and the Holy Spirit, our Paraclete, calls us to commit ourselves to Him.

Sometimes our focus gets skewed and we see our Christian lives only from our viewpoint. We "dedicate" our lives to Him or "give" Him our all or "surrender" ourselves to God's call on our lives. Don't get me wrong; these things are essential for us to do. However, many are still serving self, speaking these words from their heads instead of their hearts. It is my belief that there is an key aspect missing from our understanding of these occasions. God has a different perspective on who we are and how we should function in His Kingdom life here on Earth. In God's sight we have made a "commitment" to Him to carry out our responsibilities with integrity, with a godly spirit while displaying healthy behavior.

The dictionary says that commitment means a promise, an obligation or steadfastness (to a person, organization or idea). However, those who lack a virtuous character would ask to what extent this commitment is made, i.e., for how long or with what exceptions, thinking to get by with as little giving as possible. What a lackluster life that would be with nothing but self to be passionate about. Whoa! Or should that be Woe!? There is palpable sadness in that possibility. Without a commitment to God or other people, only self remains. And, when self alone is your life, Satan "stands at the door" to make it decadent and eventually nil.

Now for the all-important question:  Who/What are you committed to? Are you all in or visible just long enough to get the kuddos? Commitment is for the long-haul with the "real" men and women in life that ends with a crown in Heaven. Those who choose self will find life to be unfulfilling with shallow people surrounding them and a resulting pile of straw and rubble on Judgment Day before Jesus.

LADYING FOR AUGUST 10, 2014: "Live your life being committed to people you are called to walk with. Self is...well...selfish and others won't stay around for long."