"Go, Stay, Commit"

The Power of Commitment: Surrendering to God's Call

In our fast-paced world, it's easy to confuse busyness with true commitment. We may fill our schedules with activities, even church-related ones, but are we truly surrendered to God's will for our lives? This is a question we must all grapple with as we seek to live out our faith authentically.

The story of Abraham (initially called Abram) provides a powerful example of what it means to be committed to God's calling. When God called Abram to leave his homeland and journey to an unknown land, Abram didn't hesitate. He departed, went forth, passed through, and journeyed onward. These action words paint a picture of a man fully surrendered to God's plan, even when it meant leaving everything familiar behind.

But what does this level of commitment look like in our lives today? It starts with surrender. Surrender means waving the white flag to our own desires and telling God, "Whatever Your will is for my life, I want that accomplished." It's not about informing God of our plans, but rather aligning our hearts with His purposes.

This surrender then manifests as commitment, which in turn produces action. However, it's crucial to understand that being busy doesn't necessarily equate to being committed. True commitment stems from a heart that's fully surrendered to God.

For many of us, our commitment to God is reflected in our commitment to His church. The church isn't just a building or an organization; it's the body of Christ, His representation on earth to a lost and dying world. Jesus gave His life for the church, and the early apostles established local gatherings of believers everywhere they went.

But why is church attendance and involvement so important? It's not about checking a box or earning favor with God. Rather, it's about being part of a community that feeds us spiritually so that we can effectively reach out to others. It's about being equipped and encouraged to live out our faith in the world around us.

Sometimes, God calls us to "go" - like Abraham leaving his homeland, or modern-day missionaries traveling to foreign lands. Other times, He calls us to "stay" and be a light right where we are. The book of Acts reminds us that God has determined the times and places where we live. This means that the people around us - our neighbors, coworkers, and community members - are not there by accident. God has strategically placed us to reflect His goodness, love, and greatness to those who don't know Him.

Consider the story of Abraham again. God placed him and his family in a strategic location - a central meeting place for trade routes where people from Africa, Asia, and Europe would pass through. This wasn't a random choice. God positioned Abraham there so that he and his descendants could reflect God's character to the nations passing by.

In the same way, God has positioned each of us in our current circumstances for a purpose. Whether it's in our workplace, our neighborhood, or even in unexpected encounters, God brings the mission field to us. We don't always need to travel far to share God's love; sometimes, the opportunity is right in front of us.

This truth should shape how we view our daily lives and interactions. That coworker who doesn't know Christ? That neighbor going through a difficult time? The stranger you meet while running errands? These are all potential mission fields that God has brought to you.

But here's the challenging part: being ready for these opportunities requires commitment. It requires staying connected to God through prayer, Bible study, and fellowship with other believers. It requires being willing to step out of our comfort zones and engage with others in meaningful ways.

Sometimes, this commitment might look like participating in community events, such as handing out water at a local parade. While it might seem small, actions like these can spark curiosity in others. People may wonder, "What makes these folks different? Why are they so joyful and giving?" This curiosity can open doors for conversations about faith.

Other times, commitment might mean staying faithful in difficult circumstances, trusting that God has a purpose even when we can't see it. It might mean continuing to show love to someone who doesn't reciprocate, or persevering in prayer for a situation that seems hopeless.

Throughout all of this, we must remember God's heart in the matter. From the beginning of creation, God has been reaching out to humanity. He came down in the form of Jesus Christ, walking among us. And now, through the Holy Spirit, He dwells within believers. God's desire is for relationship with us, and He's continually reaching out to those who don't yet know Him.

Our role, then, is to align ourselves with God's heart. To be so committed to Him that we naturally reflect His love and truth to others. To be ready and willing vessels for His work in the world.

This level of commitment isn't always easy. It requires sacrifice, perseverance, and often takes us out of our comfort zones. But the rewards are immeasurable. Not only do we grow closer to God ourselves, but we also have the privilege of participating in His work of reaching others.

As we reflect on these truths, let's ask ourselves: Are we truly committed to God's calling on our lives? Are we fully surrendered, ready to go where He leads or stay where He plants us? Are we actively looking for the mission fields He brings to our doorstep?

May we be inspired by Abraham's example of wholehearted commitment. May we be challenged to move beyond mere busyness to true surrender. And may we be encouraged by the knowledge that God is always reaching out - both to us and through us to others. Let's commit ourselves anew to being part of His grand plan of redemption, right where we are.