Ezra 1-2; John 19:23-42

Great athletes know what COMMITMENT is.

It’s the ability to say “no” to your body.

When muscles burn for rest, lungs burn for air, and throats burn for water – the great athlete denies his or her body and pushes on.

God is looking for the same commitment from his followers.

Romans 12 tells us that God wants us to offer Him our bodies as “living sacrifices.”

But MY idea of sacrifice is different from God’s. I was amazed this morning to read:

“Knowing that all was now completed, and so that the Scripture would be fulfilled, Jesus said, “I am thirsty…” When he had received the drink, Jesus said, “It is finished.” With that, he bowed his head and gave up his spirit.”

 

Jesus didn’t drink pain killers to relieve His fiery thirst or His unimaginable pain. He drank it – to fulfill Scripture. And then, He died.

My idea of sacrifice doesn’t go that far. When I say “no” to my body – it’s only occasional and temporary. Then I go back to my comfort zone.

Jesus’ comfort zone was to do the Father’s will. Period.

COMMITMENT.

Nothing great is achieved without it.

Jesus said “no” to His body – and meant it.

Can I?

 

Have a GREAT Monday!

Tags: Bayside Church Woodland, Bayside Woodland, Bible Study, Ezra, John