When Christians discuss matters of commitment and devotion to Christ, the discussion is usually conducted from the perspective of one’s willingness to make the ultimate sacrifice–their very own lives for the sake of Christ. The idea is that when one’s faith is challenged, the devoted Christian will stand firm even under the threat of harm or death. Indeed, the example of the faithful martyrs down through Christian history, including those who gave their lives for Christ in very recent times, is a source of inspiration.
Perhaps it may also be worthwhile to consider what true devotion and commitment looks like in the ordinary, day-to-day circumstances of life. It may be easy to talk about what I will do when I am facing serious persecution. But the nature of my commitment in my daily walk may be a more accurate indicator of where I really stand with regard to my faith.
In a tweet just last week, Ravi Zacharias comments: “If you don’t learn to pay smaller prices of following Christ in daily life, you won’t be prepared to pay the ultimate price in God’s calling.” I am reminded of Jesus’ own words: “He who is faithful in what is least is faithful also in much” (Luke 16.10 NKJV).
The point is simple. The Lord is not impressed by grand promises that are not backed up by simple obedience. What matters to the Lord are not my ambitious plans of what I will do for him. What he desires is that what I do is in partnership with him and under his authority. And it begins with the “little things” that Christ already asks of me right now: Am I making the most use of the time that he has entrusted to me for his sake? Am I utilizing my strength and energy for his purposes? Are my material resources readily at his disposal for the advancement of his kingdom?
Being faithful in the “little things” could include such ordinary tasks as going to bed early on Saturday night and getting up early on Sunday morning to be on time and alert for worship. It could involve skipping my favorite sport’s championship game that happens to fall on the same night of a Bible study. It could mean giving up my daily Starbucks coffee and channeling the money saved toward missionary work. It may call for washing dishes or taking out the trash after a church gathering.
If I am not already practicing the discipline of “denying myself” for the sake of Christ in the ordinary tasks of life, chances are I will not have the motivation or the resolve to sacrifice my all under the pressure of serious challenges to my faith and service.
—Keith Y. Jainga