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“But go, tell his disciples and Peter that he is going before you to Galilee…” Mark 16:7 English Standard Version

Initially my father did not respond enthusiastically to my enlisting in the Army. As he put it, he knew that I had a habit of not finishing things and an enlistment in the military was not something I could just walk away from. As a veteran himself, he well understood the level of commitment required by military service. He doubted my willingness to see something as serious as military service through to the end. He was correct in his evaluation of me. I lacked stick-to-it-iveness. I had developed the habit of walking away from difficult situations and tasks. He questioned my ability to summon the commitment needed to fully complete an enlistment in the Army. Surprisingly, not only did I finish Basic Training and my initial enlistment, I made a career out of the Army completing twenty-seven years of service and attaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. Though I did not possess the needed commitment when I first entered the service, I developed it along the way. God works with us in a similar way.

During the last supper, Peter boldly proclaimed his commitment to Jesus, bragging that he would stay by Jesus’ side even to the death. Jesus, knowing Peter’s heart, warned him, telling him that before the night was out, Peter would deny Him. And we know the rest of that sad night. Indeed, Peter fails and denies the Lord three times. But that’s not the end of the story.

Jesus rises and tells Mary to go and inform the scattered apostles that He has risen. He tells Mary to make sure she tells Peter. Jesus understands Peter. Imagine how low Peter felt. As usual, he’d made a rather brash proclamation concerning his strength of commitment and character, and he’d failed miserably. As with Peter, our Lord understands our weaknesses and moral frailty.

For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Hebrews 4:15

Jesus understands that our level of commitment often falls short of the mark; but, He does not abandon us. He works with us, calling us back to His side and to try again. He gives us tools to strengthen our commitment. Here are a few of the tools available to us.

26 Likewise the Spirit helps us in our weakness. For we do not know what to pray for as we ought, but the Spirit himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words. Romans 8:26

God’s Holy Spirit speaks for me. Recently I had to go to court for a minor issue, not even as serious as a traffic ticket; however, I had a lawyer who represented me. He paved the way, speaking with the Judge before I got there. He made sure everything went well and that the Judge was predisposed to help me out. In a like manner the Holy Spirit works on my behalf in the supernatural realm. This knowledge helps me feel more confident in my relationship with the Lord. I’m not alone, I have someone working hard on my behalf.

16 All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, 17 that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work. II Timothy 3:16-17

God has provided His word to help grow develop us and the commitment needed for our walk through this life. This is why we need to spend time in the word. The more time we spend in God’s word, the more we find ourselves equipped to meet the challenges which can erode our commitment to the Lord. Setting aside time to read the Bible each day helps strengthen us for the challenges we face.

23 Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:23-25

God did not design us to be lone rangers, engaging in the struggles of life alone. He placed in the body for our encouragement. When we face those situations that exert a corrosive effect on our commitment our brothers can help strengthen us. When we try to face life alone, we find our strength much diminished. As it says in Ecclesiasts: 12 And though a man might prevail against one who is alone, two will withstand him—a threefold cord is not quickly broken. Ecclesiastes 4:12 God understands our need for faithful companions. Seek out the fellowship of other Godly men, especially those who’ve walked with the Lord a long time. Let their wisdom and experience rub off on you. Ask them questions and listen to their story. It may illuminate your path, helping you avoid pitfalls.

God seeks our commitment; however, He understands our weaknesses and provides for them. He provides His word, fellow believers, the Holy Spirit, and perhaps most importantly, grace in ample supply. He knows our frailties and stands ready with open arms to forgive and bind up our wounds. Trust Him to help you grow in commitment.

Thought Questions:

1. How much time do you spend reading God’s word? How much time in prayer?
2. What do you think challenges your level of commitment?
3. Do you have a close relationship with fellow believers?
4. Can you share your struggles with them?
5. What keeps you from opening up to your fellow believers?