Are you willing and ready to commit to the Lord to walk in an intimate relationship with Him? It's easy to desire a closer connection with God, but it takes more than a longing. It requires a firm commitment. When we commit ourselves to the Lord, we embark on a journey of developing a deeper and more meaningful relationship with Him.
I pray that this blog post will encourage you to commit to walking with God more intimately. Trust me, you will be blessed beyond measure when you do. You will see God in your life in so many areas.
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The Importance of Commitment
Commitments hold immense value in our lives. Just like how we honor our commitments to others, we should treat our commitments to the Lord with greater importance. Just as I had two meetings with pastors in Africa and made commitments to them, clarifying the specifics and promising to fulfill my commitments, we must approach our commitments to the Lord with a greater level of seriousness.
When we make commitments to the Lord, it is not a mere formality. It is an essential part of building an intimate relationship with Him. So, if you desire a more profound connection with God, it's time to step up and commit. Make a commitment to the Lord and yourself that you will pursue Him wholeheartedly.
Seeking God Wholeheartedly
Jeremiah 29:13 reminds us, "If you look for me wholeheartedly, you will find me." Thus, seeking God becomes a commitment in itself – a commitment to wholeheartedly seek Him, search for Him, and make efforts to know Him better. This commitment entails dedicating a part of our lives to seeking God and developing a consistent relationship with Him.
I have always felt God wants to see our skin in the game. He wants to see you when you say you will be there. He wants to see you doing what you say you will do. I am not patting myself on the back, but God knows I will be there bright and early at prayer time. It's a habit I intentionally created in my life. God knows that I will go where He tells me to go. Why? Because I have proven it repeatedly, I will pack my bags and live where He is guiding me—these and much more are a result of seeking and being committed to Him. It's a life that I live and breathe.
Commitment is not a One-Time Event
Committing to God is not a one-time event. It is an ongoing process that requires consistent effort and dedication. It's not enough to say, "God, I commit my time to developing a closer relationship with you." This commitment should manifest in our daily lives, choices, and time with Him.
In my personal walk with God, I have discovered the power of consistency. I have learned what you do today will have rippling effects tomorrow and days after that. I have a philosophy of being that turtle in the race. I do things with a little-by-little mentality. I don't try to tackle things all at once. I chew on it day by day. It's not procrastination but having the fortitude to accomplish tasks at hand consistently. Then, over time, I will see myself scratching them off my list. In the end, I am the one winning the race.
It is the same thing with the Lord and building a relationship with Him. You consistently pray. You consistently read His written Word. You consistently obey His commands. You consistently attend and serve in the House of God. You consistently show love to those around you. You consistently give of yourself and finances into the Kingdom of God. You consistently forgive those who have wronged you. The key is consistency. As you do, you will see your relationship with the Lord grow into a substantial rippling effect. You will see your intimacy with Him skyrocket.
Devotion in Good and Bad Times
Commitment to an intimate relationship with God means being devoted to Him above all else, regardless of the circumstances. Whether experiencing abundance or experiencing difficulties, our dedication to seek and follow God remains unwavering.
Sometimes, we may be tempted to think we don't need God in times of prosperity, or we feel too broken to approach Him in times of failure. However, if we genuinely desire intimacy with God, we must run to Him in both good and bad times.
We should be willing to put aside everything else to spend time with Him. Just as I am readily available to my wife and totally open to her. Our relationship with God should be the same and have no "do not touch" areas. We should be open and transparent, giving God full access to every aspect of our lives at any moment.
Embracing Obedience and Humility
Cultivating an intimate relationship with God requires embracing obedience and humility. Unfortunately, many profess the name of Jesus but do not live according to His teachings. To truly follow a life of faith, we must be obedient to God's Word, abstaining from things that are contrary to His teachings.
Humility is another crucial aspect. We must recognize that we don't always know what is best for our lives. Instead of running our own race, we should seek God's guidance and surrender our lives to His plans. Being humble means putting Him first, no matter the cost. It means letting go of our desires and submitting to His will.
The Blessings of Commitment
Committing wholeheartedly to God and cultivating an intimate relationship with Him is not always easy. It may require sacrifice, stepping out of our comfort zones, or even giving up certain things. However, I can testify that the rewards far outweigh the sacrifices. When we commit ourselves to God, we experience a depth of intimacy and a sense of fulfillment that only He can provide.
In my own journey as a missionary in Central America, I have seen the power of commitment. By giving up everything and dedicating my life to serving God, I have found immense joy and fulfillment in Him. I have discovered a level of intimacy with Him that surpasses any earthly satisfaction. You can never go wrong in pursuing intimacy with Father God.
Wrapping it Up
So, if you truly desire to cultivate an intimate relationship with God, I encourage you to make a commitment. Commit to seeking Him wholeheartedly, dedicating your time and energy to build and nurture this relationship. Embrace obedience and humility, surrendering every aspect of your life to Him. In doing so, you will experience the depth and beauty of an intimate connection with the Lord.
Authentic intimacy with God is not a fleeting emotion but a lifelong commitment. Let us commit today and embark on a journey of a lifetime – a journey of intimacy with our Heavenly Father.
Scriptures on Commitment to God
Colossians 3:23-24
2 Timothy 2:15
Ecclesiastes 9:10
1 Corinthians 10:31
Matthew 5:16
1 Corinthians 15:58
Colossians 3:23
Romans 12:2
1 Peter 2:9
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some examples of commitment to God?
Commitment to God is a vital aspect of our faith journey. It is not merely a one-time decision, but a daily choice to surrender our lives to Him. Just as a marriage requires commitment and dedication, so does our relationship with God. In Matthew 22:37, Jesus tells us that the greatest commandment is to love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, and mind. This requires a deep commitment to prioritize God in every area of our lives.
Commitment to God means putting Him first in our thoughts, actions, and decisions.
It means seeking His guidance and wisdom in all that we do.
To acknowledge God in all our ways as He directs our paths.
To trust in His plan for our lives, even when it may not align with our own desires or understanding.
Being faithful and obedient to His Word.
It means living according to the principles and teachings found in the Bible.
It means striving to live a life that reflects the character of Christ.
In what ways is God important to all of us?
God is of utmost importance to every single person on this earth. He is the creator of all things, the sustainer of life, and the source of true joy and fulfillment. Without God, we are lost and without purpose. As the psalmist declares, "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want" (Psalm 23:1). In Him, we find provision, guidance, and protection. He is the one who knows us intimately and cares for us deeply. Just as a shepherd tends to his flock, God tends to our every need.
Furthermore, God is the giver of life. In the book of Genesis, we read that God formed man from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life (Genesis 2:7). Our very existence is a testament to God's power and love. He has created each of us with a unique purpose and calling. Without God, life would have no meaning or significance. It is through our relationship with Him that we discover our true identity and find fulfillment in fulfilling His purposes for our lives.
How is God present in our daily lives?
God is present in our daily lives through His constant love and guidance. He is like a faithful shepherd, leading and protecting His flock. Just as a shepherd cares for his sheep, God cares for us and is always with us, guiding us along the right path. As it is written in Psalm 23:1, "The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing."
Furthermore, God is present in our daily lives through His provision and blessings. He provides for our needs and blesses us abundantly. Just as a loving parent provides for their children, God provides for us. In Matthew 6:26, Jesus reminds us, "Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?"
Additionally, God is present in our daily lives through His comfort and peace. In times of trouble or distress, He is our refuge and strength. Just as a comforting friend offers solace in times of need, God offers us His comfort and peace. In Isaiah 41:10, God assures us, "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
Why should we depend on God?
Depending on God is crucial because He is our Creator and the source of all wisdom, strength, and provision. As the psalmist declares, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5). When we depend on ourselves or other worldly things, we are bound to fall short and experience disappointment. However, when we place our full trust in God, He promises to guide us and provide for us in ways that surpass our own comprehension (Isaiah 55:8-9).
Depending on God allows us to experience true freedom and peace. Jesus said, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). When we try to carry the weight of our problems and worries on our own, we become overwhelmed and exhausted. But when we surrender our burdens to God and depend on Him, He gives us rest and peace in the midst of life's challenges.
Depending on God also enables us to live a life of purpose and fulfillment. In Jeremiah 29:11, God declares, "For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." When we depend on God and seek His guidance, He directs our steps and leads us into the abundant life He has prepared for us. He equips us with the gifts and abilities we need to fulfill our purpose and make a positive impact in the world.
Shawn Paul is an author and missionary who has been living and working in Central America for the past 10 years. He is passionate about living for Jesus Christ and inspiring others to do the same, which is the focus of his blog, where he shares his expertise in Christianity.
In addition to his missionary work, Shawn enjoys reading books, studying God's Word, growing plants and flowers, feeding birds, and keeping up with the latest technology.
As a writer, Shawn's unique perspective and passion for his faith shine through in his work. Shawn's goal for the future is to impact people around the world for Jesus through his writing and missionary work.