Read: Romans 12:1-2
Effective leadership flows from commitment to the right things. As followers of Christ, the single most important commitment of our lives is to God. Any true (and eternal) success we experience as leaders will flow from that commitment.
The apostle Paul urges us on God’s behalf to devote ourselves to God. The word “Therefore” (v. 1) points to all the apostle has written in the previous eleven chapters. In light of God’s mercy, which justifies, sanctifies, and will someday glorify us, we are to offer ourselves as living sacrifices to him. In other words, we should allow God’s mercy to accomplish this additional work in our lives. We should let it drive us to absolute commitment.
The word “offer” implies that this act, much like a wedding vow, occurs once. It may be renewed, but at some point we should be motivated by God’s mercy to devote ourselves to him. When we take this step, we’re acknowledging Christ’s leadership in our lives. We sacrifice our selfish desires and misguided ambitions as we strive to align ourselves with God’s will. Once this act of commitment occurs, our talents and dreams will be surrendered to his purpose. And the more we give ourselves to him, the more he will bless and use us.
Have you committed yourself completely to Christ? If not, consider doing so now. If you’re a devoted follower of Christ, perhaps you could consider renewing this commitment.
Commitment and Who God Is
What is the basis for security and significance in life? Security relates to commitment, and significance relates to how long something will last. God tells us that he is committed to all who are in Christ, and that our relationship with him will last forever. Turn to Jeremiah 31:31-36 to see the covenant of commitment the Lord made with his people.
Commitment and Who I Am
Quality relationships are founded on the rock of commitment, not the shifting sand of feelings or emotions. God calls us to be a people of commitment, first to him and then to others. Turn to Joshua 24:14-27 to study the parting words of a man whose entire life was marked by commitment.
Commitment and How It Works
How on earth do leaders establish and retain committed followers? How, in some cases, do we get ourselves committed enough to pay the high price of success? God knows how, and the prophet Habakkuk (Habakkuk 3:17-18) models an essential truth about God-focused commitment.
Commitment and What I Do
What does commitment look like in a leader, and how can we practice it? Turn to Matthew 16:24-26 to examine Jesus’ standard of deeper commitment.
Passage to memorize this week:
JOB 11:13-15: “Yet if you devote your heart to him and stretch out your hands to him, if you put away the sin that is in your hand and allow no evil to dwell in your tent, then you will lift up your face without shame; you will stand firm and without fear.”
– Bible Gateway.Com
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