A New Year With New Commitments

Let me start out by saying "Happy New Year" to everyone!  I pray that during 2012 you will "prosper and be in good health, even as your soul prospers!" (3 John 2).  I know that many will make new year's "resolutions" for changes in their lives in the coming year.  But unfortunately most will not last past the end of January!  That's why I want to offer you some suggestions about making "commitments" rather than "resolutions."

Commitment is one of those words most people would like to remove from their "verbal" dictionaries.  Many think of commitment as something that is hard or difficult, but the reality is that all of us are committed to something.  The question becomes, are we committed to the right things?


Four Reasons Why Commitment Is Difficult:

1. Because it requires us to make a definitive decision
2. Because it requires change and most people don't like change
3. It brings a "restructuring" of your life and time
4. It requires due diligence and self-discipline

 Five Keys To Commitment:

1. Our commitment must be "Christ-centered" (1 Corinthians 10:31)
2. To be committed we must make the study of God's Word a priority (2 Timothy 2:15)
3. Set your affections on things above (Colossians 3:2)
4. Take Satan seriously because his goal is to "distract" you (Ephesians 6:12)
5. Be determined (1 Corinthians 2:2 & Daniel 1:8)

Our Major Commitments In Life:

1. Be Committed To God First!  (Mark 12:30 & Matthew 6:33)  Real commitment doesn't have an off and on switch.  If we are really committed to God, It will show.  Others will see the fruits of our commitment.
2. Be Committed To Your Church (Hebrews 10:25)
• Committed in church attendance
• Committed to church growth
• Committed to your church's needs
• Committed to soul winning
3. Be Committed To The Lord's Will
• Establish your priorities.  Make God and His Word the most important "value" that you have.
• Establish a schedule each day to read God's Word, pray, and help someone else.
• Make your family a priority.  Find time to spend with your family, spouse, children, or grandchildren.

Why a Committed Christian Is A Conquering Christian

1. They view hindrances as opportunities (1 Corinthians 16:8-9)
2. They live a sacrificial life
3. They accept the position God places them in
4. They are a spiritual warrior (2 Corinthians 10:3-5)

What commitments are you making in 2012?  Are you committed to following Christ or yourself?  The most important commitment you can make is to follow God and put Him first in every area of your life!  I challenge you today, to make the commitment that in 2012 you will seek to conform your life to God's principles and to serve Him as a faithful ambassador.  God bless you in this new year!