• Godly Living Posts / Quotes

    Commitment: A Journey Guided by the Holy Spirit

    Maintaining commitment in today’s generation often seems like a distant aspiration. While many individuals enthusiastically embark on new endeavors, only a minority display the readiness and determination to sustain their efforts over the long term.

    Consider the scenario of gym memberships, which see a surge in January as people declare their intentions for weight loss as part of their new year resolutions. Yet, come June, a significant 50% of these new members have already disengaged. This trend highlights a critical six-month threshold that frequently marks the point of faltering commitment.

    The question then arises: How can we expect to achieve excellence if we struggle to uphold dedication to a single pursuit for at least a year? A considerable number of individuals lack structured routines, and some even advocate for going with the flow rather than adhering to consistent plans.

    Living without a plan is like planting without watering. 

    What does the Bible say about commitment?

    In the Bible, God serves as a remarkable example of commitment through the alignment of His words and actions. In this era, we are summoned to follow this example.

    However, this sense of dedication shouldn’t be confined solely to our relationship with God; it’s equally imperative that we extend this commitment to our interactions with fellow humans. In the workplace, unwavering commitment should persist, irrespective of our emotional state. Likewise, in the realm of education, our studies demand our full and conscious engagement.

    “Pray as if it depends on God and study as if it depends on you.” Prophet T.B Joshua.

    Here are a few verses for contemplation, offering insight into the process of reconstructing a life marked by unwavering commitment. The teachings of Apostle Paul frequently emphasize this concept, not only as a reflection of his own journey towards fulfilling his destiny but also as an inspiring directive for all of us.

    Feel free to use these verses as a foundation for your meditation on cultivating a life driven by steadfast dedication.

    Where is a commitment from?

    1 Kings 8: 61 

    And may your hearts be fully committed to the LORD our God, to live by his decrees and obey his commands, as at this time.”

    Does commitment help in hard times?

    2 Timothy 1:12

    That is why I am suffering as I am. Yet this is no cause for shame, because I know whom I have believed, and am convinced that he is able to guard what I have entrusted to him until that day.

    Two wedding rings symbolizing a marriage commitment
    Two wedding rings symbolizing a marriage commitment

    What is the benefit of dedication?

    2 Timothy 2:15

     Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.

    Can we fulfill our purpose without devotedness?

    2 Timothy 4:7

    I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

    What can you devote yourself to doing?

    Acts 2:42

    They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

    Does being committed have a reward?

    Galatians 6:9

    Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

    What should we commit to?

    Psalms 37:5 

    Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him, and he will do this.

    The relevance of faithfulness cannot be excluded from anything we do. God expects us to be attentive to him and do what he has appointed us to do. 

    The fulfillment of our callings is inherently intertwined with our reliance on the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Genuine allegiance and achievement spring forth when we immerse ourselves in the divine power to overcome any challenge.

    Personally, I’ve integrated this principle into my life through earnest prayer. I dedicate time to deliberate contemplation of my aspirations. Often, I outline the foreseeable pros and cons, conducting a thorough assessment. Subsequently, I weigh these factors while attuning myself to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

    Furthermore, I engage in a consistent practice of recalling the underlying reasons behind my actions. For instance, the inception of my blog was an inspired directive from God. Yet, there are moments when inertia sets in, making it tempting to bypass article writing. During these times, I draw strength from the awareness that this blog serves as a conduit of encouragement to individuals in various corners of the world, a calling bestowed upon me by the Holy Spirit. This realization propels me forward, reminding me that this endeavor transcends personal gratification. It’s a vessel of blessing for others. As a result, I am resolute in dedicating both time and resources to its enhancement.

    Here’s a list of other articles.

  • Children Stories

    Principal Martin’s Steadfast Rule

    At Prosper Secondary School, Principal Martin had a special message for the students every morning during devotion. He would say, “If you want to do well and achieve great things, you must be steadfast in your studies.” Many students didn’t know exactly what “steadfast” meant, but they liked how Principal Martin smiled when he said it.

    All the teachers at the school were friendly and playful, making the students happy to come to class. Parents also had good things to say about the school.

    One day, a curious student named Ruth, who was in the second year of school, wanted to understand the word “steadfast” and why Principal Martin talked about it so much.

    “What does steadfast mean?” she wondered.

    During lunch break, after she finished eating, Ruth went to Principal Martin’s office. He was surprised to see her but invited her in and offered her a seat. In a quiet voice, Ruth asked her question.

    Principal Martin listened carefully and then smiled. “Ruth, that’s a great question. Steadfast means believing in the truth of God’s Word more than anything else.”

    Ruth nodded, feeling like she understood a bit better. But then she asked, “How long do I need to be steadfast?”

    Principal Martin answered, “Being steadfast means staying strong in your faith and trust in God’s Word no matter what happens. It’s something you practice every day, and over time, you become really good at it.”

    “Why do you tell us to be steadfast every day?” Ruth asked her final question.

    With his kind smile, Principal Martin replied, “It’s my job to teach you about God’s love and show you how to live it out. The Bible says in Hebrews 3:14, ‘If we continue to believe in God’s truth until the end, we will share in Christ.’ So, I remind you every day to help you remember that God wants us to stay strong and faithful, even when things are tough.”

    He continued, “Life can have challenges, like your exams, but if you work hard and stay steadfast, you’ll see success. Steadfast means learning from your books and the Bible every day and trusting that God will help you succeed.”

    Ruth was happy with the answers Principal Martin gave her. She thanked him and decided to follow his advice. She promised herself that she would study her books and read her Bible every day, no matter what.

    Years later, when Ruth was all grown up, she met Principal Martin again at the mall in their town. They hugged and talked about old times. Ruth shared how she had followed his advice and saw God’s blessings in her life.

    Now, Ruth was a music teacher at a school and encouraged her students to be steadfast too. She bought lunch for Principal Martin and told him all about her success as a musician who spread God’s message through her songs.

    Principal Martin was really happy and thanked God for Ruth’s success. He was glad she had listened to his teachings and seen the good results of being steadfast.

    Lesson: God rewards steadfastness because He is steadfast.

    Source of the story: 1 Corinthians 15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.

    Related children’s stories here.