You may be familiar with this cute little story about some farm animals.
They lived on the farm of a wonderfully kind man, Farmer Brown. One morning the animals got to talking as farm animals often do and decided they would like to do something nice for Farmer Brown.
Finally, they thought they had devised a good plan. They would make a hearty breakfast for Farmer Brown. The chicken clucked, “I will bring the eggs”. The cow mooed, “I will provide the milk and the butter”. The pig was silent for quite some time and then he grunted, “A hearty breakfast is something you both can participate in without much effort but for me it’s a complete commitment”.
That’s how it is for me when I read God’s word. I have vowed to be completely committed. Situations and circumstances test that resolve. Do I compromise my integrity? Do I give in to fear or let doubt take over, removing me from my stand on God’s word? Or do I remain true to my resolve and stand completely committed?
This is the answer I found in Psalms this morning.
“Your word is a lamp that gives light wherever I walk. 106 Your laws are fair, and I have given my word to respect them all. 107 I am in terrible pain! Save me, Lord, as you have promised. 108 Accept my offerings of praise and teach me your laws. 109 I never forget your teachings, although my life is always in danger. 110 Some merciless people are trying to trap me, but I never turn my back on your teachings. 111 They will always be my most prized possession and my source of joy. 112 I have made up my mind to obey your laws forever, no matter what.’ Psalm 119:105-112 CEV
I don’t know what kind of danger the psalmist was experiencing, nor have I ever felt my life was in danger from merciless people but many around the world have. Everyday Christians in other countries are being persecuted and tortured because of their faith; many have died rather than deny Christ.
I want my resolve to be “I have made up my mind to obey your laws forever, no matter what”.
“As you have put your trust in Christ Jesus the Lord to save you from the punishment of sin, now let Him lead you in every step. 7 Have your roots planted deep in Christ. Grow in Him. Get your strength from Him. Let Him make you strong in the faith as you have been taught. Your life should be full of thanks to Him.” Colossians 2:6-7 NLV
I don’t just want to participate in my walk with Christ; I want to be completely committed.