I was recently asked if everyone has to be deeply committed to God (as the apostles). I paused for a moment because although I know that God has much patience, the call to Christ is to follow him not just believe in him. Paul makes it clear that if we are to follow Christ, be disciples, we have to die to sin and live unto God. This, of course, isn't some drab, puritan-looking life, but it is a surrender of everything. However, the answer I had to give was, YES. We are called to be just as deeply committed to Christ as any apostle or saint of old. We are called to follow Christ not just believe in Him.
What that looks like for each of us is different in some ways but in other ways, it means that we should be the same. We should all want to be a part of a group of believers (yes, a church). We should be spending time getting into the Word of God (faith comes by hearing the Word). Yet for some, they believe but struggle with wanting to go to church or reading the Bible. What can you do?
Pray!
James tells us that if we lack, we need to ask God. He is speaking of wisdom but the wisdom to begin loving the church and the Word is something we may really need. So, ask. Pray, "God, help me love your church," and "God, help me love your Word." Prayer works, this is why Jesus tells us to pray for our enemies because when we pray for them, we can learn to love them as he commands.
You may say what if the prayer isn't fully sincere? Pray anyway. I have learned from my own experience that God will answer prayers offered in faith even when that faith is lacking.
What if you're struggling with the thought of making this kind of commitment? You know you should but part of you doesn't. Then I will give the same advice. Pray, Pray, pray.
What if you feel God isn't listening? You know the answer...PRAY!
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