“We are committed to our church, committed to our pastors, but we are not committed to God.”
Those words resonated in my heart as I analyzed myself, and felt the Holy Spirit reveal that which was lacking in my life.
This past weekend I was at a women’s vigil hosted by my church’s women’s ministry. From beginning to end it was an unforgettable eight hours in worship, prayer, and teachings of the Bible, but there was one message that struck me the most, and impacts me even today. One of the speakers began on the topic of commitment, and as many know, that is something in which we give of when being part of a ministry or leadership at church and even part of a relationship. We tend to measure our commitment to how devoted we are in Christ, to how much we trust and follow his commandments. However, this isn’t always true or even correct at times. As the guest speaker began talking, she mentioned this: “We are committed to our church, committed to our pastors, but we are not committed to God.” For so long did I feel like my devotion to God was measured and approved by how much I served at church, and by how much I obeyed my pastors. Boy was I wrong.
When we are committed to someone, we want to gratify and make the person feel content with us; well it is the same with God. Do not get me wrong, God does see our effort and commitment to our church and pastors and he rejoices in our obedience; however we are to feel compromised to him first in order to want and desire what He wants and desires.
Isaiah 55:8 says: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways.’ declares the Lord.” We see and know that what God wants for us is not what we want, or think we ought to do. He wants us to step into his holy place, and see the wonders that he has set before us. It is not about how many hours we spend volunteering at church, it is about our hearts and where they are inclined to. The Bible is very clear to us about seeking the Lord.
“But if from there you seek the Lord your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul.” -Deuteronomy 4:29
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” -Matthew 6:33
I tell you this just as a reminder and to make sure that we have not fallen into that pattern of serving, serving, serving, and not really seeking his presence, his holy spirit. With time you will feel empty and tired of doing the same things at church just like I did once and you will not have joy, and love to serve your church and others. When our hearts are committed to God we see everything in a different light. We serve beyond what is required and we don’t look left or right to see if anyone is watching because we know that the God of heaven and earth is looking and smiling down on us. “Draw near to God and he will draw near to you…” Don’t think for any moment that your good deeds will save you or bring you to good terms with God.
Commit to God, then your church, and then your pastors.
