Committ

OK, I have been committed to run (ok, more like jog, slowly) since September. I just finished doing a three week Daniel Fast that I committed to. I am committed to God, my family, my husband, my job, etc. So why is commitment such a big deal? Well, my pastor spoke on commitment, being fully invested in our walk with God. Here are my notes.

Commitments show what we value. Romans 5:10 says theat where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. So true. Be careful what you treasure. Make sure it is something eternal that will last and has value to God. An uncommitted life is a selfish life. Proverbs 4:23 says that commitments shape our life. Matthew 6:24 warns us that we can't serve two masters. We will love one and despise the other. Commitments set out destiny. It sounds overly dramatic, but it is true. Matthew 6:19-20 tells us to not store up treasures on this earthm, but in heaven where they will not be destroyed or lost. Commitments direct/point us/set our compass. You can't own something unless you commit to it. Think about marriage. Be specific and not halfhearted when you commit. Be fully invested in God and His plan for you and you will see great things. Be careful and deliberate in what you commit to. But don't be afraid to commit. Just make sure it is of God and it will bless you and others.

I. Make a WISE commitment. Luke 14 says we should count the cost. Proverbs 20:25 says that we should not be trapped by our commitments. We need margin room to work and move within so that God has room to work. If we are too strapped with time and finances,etc. then we can't say yes when God asks something of us.

II, Make a GENEROUS commitment. 2.Corinthians 9:7 Each one must do what he has made up his mind, not reluctantly, or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

III. Make a BOLD commitment. Don't let the "what ifs" get in the way. Be wise and bold. Matthew 17 Jesus put Peter wo work as a fisherman and multiplied his results. He didn't have to pay the tax, but chose to be generous.

IV. Make a GOD CENTERED commitment. It will be the beginning of something great and lasting, something Big for your life and for others.

"FIRST"=Commitments to God come first! Then everything else. Here are four "Firsts" that God wants us all to commit to:

1. The first THOUGHT of every day-in quiet times.
2. The first Day of every week-Sunday. Acts 20:7
3. The first TENTH of every paycheck. Proverbs 3:9
4. The first CONSIDERATION of every decision.

If we don't make commitments then our goals won't happen. You will get sucked into our culture. It is too easy. It must be a deliberate, daily act to stay committed to Christ. Letting God direct your life makes things simpler and more meaningful. Try it. You'll like it! (Just like Timmy used to say in the Life cereal commercials). Seriously, trust God, try it, you won't be dissappointed.