Commitment

"It is a snare for a man to devote rashly something as holy, and afterward to reconsider his vows." (Prov. 20:25)

I've been mulling over this verse a lot lately, considering different aspects. When I consecrate something as unto the LORD, it is my duty to follow through with that. Even if, to my dismay, it turns out much differently than expected, if I have made a vow to something, I must continue in it. I think this especially true with friendships, in that, they may go much differently than a heart wishes. But if already devoted to the Lord, if I promised a friend to never leave another, than who am I to reconsider this vow? Even if it would be easier to dissolve a friendship, the right thing to do is to stick with that which has been promised. (Of course, there are some exceptions, but in general) If I promised to always be an encourager, a sister in Christ, to another saint, that is what I must (yup, I said it, MUST) do!

I love the whole history of Saul and David...proud versus broken. I also love looking at Samuel's prayers and conversations during this time, and I have always been impressed with Samuel's attitude of prayer towards the people of Israel when Saul was first made king: 

"Moreover, as for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you; but I will teach you the good and the right way." (I Samuel 12:23)

Samuel loved these people, despite their shortcomings, to pray for them. He was so serious about this that he considered NOT praying for them a sin. And so that's how I desire it to be in my friendships. I must have a Christ-centered love (that only comes from Him) towards those who it would be easier to never forgive.

After all, the true measure of love in the first place is how much one is willing to give for the other...am I willing to give up even the object itself? True love is saying, "My life for your life", esteeming the other better than oneself (Phil. 2:4). I'm not all that great...I don't have much to offer. But I can offer my prayers and support when everything else is rejected.

"Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you." (Eph. 4:31-32)

Posterous theme by Cory Watilo