As is often the case, there are moments when we need to take the time to assure that we have maintained accuracy in how we define critical realities in our culture.

This struggle revisits us generation after generation. One generation leans into something, and the next generation pulls back.

We see this most prominently in the shift of values, the stir of faith debates, and the sting of political rhetoric. What was once common among us begins to be challenged and ultimately, they are completely changed. Absolutes are abandoned and once we hoist the anchor, the devastating drift begins to develop.

We see this being lived out over and over again and we can easily see how devastating it is to our society and to our own sense of stability.

What we need to put into play more now, than ever before is this …

Demanding Commitment … Is Always Poised To Finish Strong

The one thing that matters most is the presence of “demanding commitment”.

Pastor Colin Smith takes this on in his article, What “Commitment” Means which is posted on his platform, Open the Bible.

Here is his take on all that we are considering together.

We live in a society that sometimes discourages commitment. “We want to live together, but we don’t want to marry.” “We will be there if we are able.” The pressure of this kind of environment can very quickly begin to shape who you become.

Imagine having breakfast with a college student and talking about his relationship with the Lord. At one point in the conversation, he says to you, “I take my commitment on a day-to-day basis. I see what the day brings, and I go with what I feel.” What he is actually saying is: “I have absolutely no commitment. I make decisions based on the circumstances at the time.”

This is our reality, isn’t it?

So much is lost when so little can be engaged with certainty.

Demanding Commitment … Is Always Poised To Finish Strong

Pastor Colin goes on to add this, “Commitment means that certain decisions are made in advance, irrespective of the circumstances: I will honor Christ, whatever the pain and whatever the cost. I will obey God’s word, even when that is the hardest thing to do. I will do what God has called me to do when it is draining as well as when it is fulfilling. There is no other way to follow Christ.”

Such a great word and it perfectly expresses all that “demanding commitment” is designed to do.

Demanding Commitment … Is Always Poised To Finish Strong

We dare not define commitment as being something lesser than this. There is no doubt that true commitment is demanding, deliberate, decisive, and difficult.

We should not sell it short … we sincerely need to stage up and steward well all that God has specifically delivered into our hands.

It matters, it really does.

I am in … and you!
-Terry-