Considering Commitment
July 26, 2010
Jesus Christ demands that his followers be loyal, committed, and dedicated to him, and him alone (Lk. 9:23; 14:26; Matt. 6:24). We see in Scripture the degree to which Christians went to honor the Lord’s expectations (Acts 8:1; 12:1-2; 2 Cor. 11:23-27). These early believers suffered unimaginable distress, pain, and even death because of their commitment to Christ. How committed are we today? How committed are you? Before answering, consider the situation of several Virginia inmates. Nearly fifty prisoners are being held in perpetual isolation because they refuse to cut their hair for religious reasons. Many of these inmates are Rastafarians, whose hair growth is part of their religion. Ten of these inmates have been in segregation for a decade because they refuse to comply with the state’s grooming policy. Did you read that, West Broad and friends? A decade. These men have spent ten years in isolation because they are committed to their beliefs. Regretfully, their faith puts the faith of many Christians to shame. We complain when the worship service goes a little long. We complain when we are called to serve in the church. We complain when we are asked to work in the community. We complain when we are encouraged and admonished to live moral, ethical, and holy lives (Heb. 10:24). The men referenced above are committed to following a man-made system. What will you tell the Lord if you have a shallow commitment to his true, eternal, and divine system (Jn. 14:6; Rom. 1:16; Acts 4:12)? Consider your commitment today, friend. Please. –JLNJR (Resource: Jet Magazine, July 26, 2010, 19)
